Anzhi target Napoli star Lavezzi

Russia’s big spenders Anzhi Makhachala are considering an outrageous bid for Napoli striker Ezequiel Lavezzi, Italian media reported Wednesday.

Lavezzi has been linked with a host of English sides, including Chelsea and Liverpool, as well as Italy’s Juventus, but he has a release clause worth €31 million, which my be too much to handle for other clubs.

Anzhi, however, can easily afford the fee, in addition to 6.5 million euros a year in wages, Italian daily Il Mattino reported.

Lavezzi’s Italian agent Peppino Tirri suggested a deal is possible, but it will depend on the success of Anzhi’s attempt to qualify for the Champions League.

«Before then, Anzhi must decide whether or not it will make the Champions League,» Tirri said.

«Certainly the desire to do well is there, and Lavezzi is a player that we all consider a top player.»