Liverpool setback as Napoli close in on £14m Mexico star – report

Napoli are close to finalising a deal to sign Liverpool target Hector Herrera, according to reports in Italy.

The Mexico international emerged as a surprise target for Jurgen Klopp in recent days as Liverpool continue to be linked with a host of midfielders in the summer transfer window.

The Reds were thought to be ready to pip Serie A side Napoli to the signing of the Porto star despite the Italian runners-up offering a deal worth £14m for the Mexican.

According to Gazzetta World, Napoli have edged a step closer to landing Herrera after the midfielder’s agents flew to Italy on Friday to finalise a deal with Napoli.

Herrera, 26, scored nine times in 29 appearances in Liga Sagres last season. The Mexican midfielder also featured four times in the Champions League for the 2004 winners.

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Liverpool finished in eighth place in the Premier League table in Klopp’s first season in charge of the Merseyside outfit.