Napoli join the race for Newcastle United target Abde Ezzalzouli | OneFootball

The race to sign Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli is heating up.

Serie A giants Napoli are officially challenging Newcastle United in the race to sign him.

The Magpies are under pressure to secure a marquee attacking signing, and manager Eddie Howe views Ezzalzouli as a perfect fit due to his relentless work rate and directness.

Napoli’s interest has complicated Newcastle’s plans to secure a deal. Fresh off a second-place finish in Italy’s top flight, they can offer the winger Champions League football.

Ezzalzouli’s market value has soared following a breakout campaign, in which he registered 15 goals and 10 assists across all competitions.

Napoli’s pursuit completely changes the dynamics of the deal, shifting leverage back to Betis.

The Andalusians are determined to hold out for the maximum possible fee, particularly because Barcelona negotiated a 20 percent sell-on clause when they allowed the winger to leave Camp Nou in 2023.

Ezzalzouli is currently recovering from a minor knee ligament injury sustained during Morocco’s pre-World Cup friendly against Norway.

The setback ruled him out of the summer’s tournament, but his injury has done nothing to cool the intensifying market interest.

If Newcastle lose out on Ezzalzouli, it would be a massive blow to the club’s summer ambitions, especially after missing out on signing Victor Munoz.