Napoli have stepped up their interest in Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella amid interest from Chelsea, claims Gianluca Di Marzio.
Barella has emerged as a top transfer target for Chelsea this month as Maurizio Sarri seeks a replacement for Cesc Fabregas.
The 31-year-old will leave Chelsea to join Monaco this month and Sarri has set his sights on €45m-rated Barella.
However, Sarri will face competition from former club Napoli, who have accelerated their pursuit of Barella as a result of interest from other clubs.
Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with a move for Napoli midfielder Allan and Carlo Ancelotti intends to sign Barella if they fail to keep hold of the Brazilian.
Barella has made more tackles than any other played aged 23 and under in Serie A this season (49).
