Newcastle United have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Pepe Reina this summer, as Napoli Chairman Aurelio de Laurentiis hopes to cash in on the 34-year-old goalkeeper.
It has been well documented this summer that Rafa Benitez wants a new number one, and a reunion with the tried and trusted Reina, who he managed at Liverpool and Napoli, looks to be high on his agenda.
The deal had been cast into doubt, with reports from Italy that he was set to stay in Naples, however the latest today will give Benitez fresh hope.
Reina has just one year remaining on his current deal and Napoli Chairman Aurelio de Laurentiis is believed to have refused him a new three year-deal.
Instead, he favours cashing in on the Spanish International, and is said to have quoted a fee of £5m to Newcastle for the Napoli number one.
Newcastle are reluctant to pay such a fee for a player turning 35 in August, however Rafa will be keen to get his man, not only for his goalkeeping expertise, but his wealth of experience that he could bring on the pitch and in the dressing room.
The Northern Echo claim that a return to the Premier League and reunion with Benitez is thought to be tempting Reina, although he is not in any rush to leave Napoli.
One to watch this summer perhaps..
