Witsel set to snub Everton and join Napoli

Everton could be set to miss out on Axel Witsel with Italian media reporting Napoli have agreed terms with the Zenit St Petersburg midfielder.

The Toffees thought they were in pole position to sign the Belgium international given they were able to offer substantially higher wages than the Serie A club .

However, Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio claims that negotiations have hit a snag, allowing Napoli to come back in with an improved offer.

Website Football Italia now report that Napoli have agreed terms with Witsel’s representatives.

They cite Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli - a radio station affiliated with the club - as it’s source.

Though the offer is unlikely to match Everton’s Napoli can offer Champions League football, something that may turn Witsel’s head.

The news would, of course, be a blow to Ronald Koeman as he looks to re-shape his midfield for the coming season.

It does though highlight the reality that, despite Farhad Moshiri’s considerable backing, some big-name players will be reluctant to move to Goodison Park until they are competing in the Champions League.

It means we may have to be patient in the transfer market and accept some targets remain out of our reach - for now.