Out-of-favour Chelsea man to be handed Napoli escape route by Antonio Conte?

Napoli have reportedly emerged as a potential contender to sign Chelsea attacker Carney Chukwuemeka.

The 21-year-old has had to settle for 32 competitive appearances since joining Chelsea from Aston Villa in the summer of 2022.

Chukwuemeka has been restricted to just five appearances in the current campaign, featuring in three Conference League games and one EFL Cup match.

Having struggled to gain regular game time, Chukwuemeka is likely to seek a move away during the current transfer window.

© Imago

Napoli make Chukwuemeka enquiry

According to TEAMtalk, former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte could make an attempt to bring Chukwuemeka to Napoli.

The report claims that the Serie A side have made an enquiry about the player's availability, as they weigh up whether to step up their pursuit.

While Napoli have shown 'concrete interest' in Chelsea, it remains to be seen whether they are willing to meet Chukwuemeka's asking price.

The West London club are said to be looking for a £30m fee, with Chukwuemeka under contract until the summer of 2028.

That valuation has supposedly put off Napoli's Serie A rivals AC Milan, who have already made contact over a potential deal.

© Imago

Napoli considering Chukwuemeka alternative

However, Napoli are believed to be considering Empoli midfielder Jacopo Fazzini as an alternative target to Chukwuemeka.

Fazzini has made 10 competitive appearances for Empoli Roberto D'Aversa's side this season, contributing with a couple of goals in the Coppa Italia.

Napoli could face competition for the 21-year-old, with domestic rivals Lazio said to be showing an interest in the player's signature.

There is a belief that there will be 'important developments' on Fazzini's future in the near future, which could impact Napoli's pursuit of Chukwuemeka.