Liverpool’s Lucas Leiva refuses to rule out Napoli switch
By Jacob Cooper
Liverpool central midfielder Lucas Leiva isn’t ruling out a move away from the club this summer, amid talks of a reunion with Rafa Benitez at Napoli. After Liverpool brought in the likes of Emre Can and Adam Lallana in the transfer window, along with Napoli target Maruoane Fellaini suffering an injury, Leiva has been heavily linked to the Serie A side.
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The Brazilian, who was left out of Philippe Scolari’s World Cup squad, made 27 league appearances during Liverpool’s impressive second place campaign. With a plethora of options for Brendan Rodgers in the central midfield area, that total could be significantly lower during Liverpool’s 2014-15 season.
Napoli recently brought in Jonathan De Guzman on a permanent deal, after the Dutchman spent two seasons on loan at Swansea City from Villarreal, as well as De Guzman’s teammate at Swansea, Michu. Benitez has also been linked to further raids of the Premier League, with Tottenham pair Christian Eriksen and Sandro linked to the club.
In an interview with Vavel Brazil (h/t Sky Sports), Leiva stated the following:
"“I can never say never. Today my thoughts are with Liverpool and I always leave that part of the proposals and boring affairs with my manager.“If something good for me arises for me and the club, it might happen. But now I’m focused on having a good season for Liverpool.”"
The 27 year-old did, however, rule out a return to his native Brazil for now, though would consider a move in the future.
"“Currently I am not thinking about it. Who knows, maybe in a few years… Yes, I have the desire to return to play in Brazil, but that desire is part of my plans for the future.”"
For now, Leiva is focusing on one thing and one thing only, though a move to Napoli is certainly possible. Brendan Rodgers has already spent over $150 million this summer, and a deal for Mario Balotelli is on the verge of completion.
"“My expectation for the season?” Lucas said, “Starting games and helping Liverpool achieve their goals this season.”"