Napoli look set to keep Jorginho this winter after it emerged the midfielder's direct competition, Mirko Valdifiori, could be sold instead.

Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal are all reported suitors of 23-year-old Jorginho.

He has beaten off Valdifiori, 29, for a place in Napoli's starting XI since the latter's arrival from Empoli in the summer.

It was thought the Naples side would be willing to offload Jorginho onto one of three Premier League suitors, safe in the knowledge they had Valdifiori as back-up.

But Valdifiori's agent has revealed that a number of clubs, including Palermo, are seeking to sign his client come January and that a move could happen.

"Valdifiori isn't just liked by Palermo," Mario Giuffredi told Radio Crc.

"I must say that it's not just them who have contacted me, but at least three or four Italian teams.

"We're not used to doing things by halves, so our idea is to stay at Napoli, because Mirko wants to gain a starting spot.

"At the moment Valdifiori is the alternative to Jorginho, but he doesn't feel that way. We've chosen Napoli, and we intend to pursue it.

"January is a time of reflection for everyone - for us, for Napoli - but in our heads we're not thinking about leaving or questioning the choices we made this summer.

"I'll have to do some talking in private, but we won't take Valdifiori away from Napoli."

Despite agent Giuffredi's insistence that Valdifiori won't be sold, Napoli themselves may choose to cash in on a player barely used so far this season.

It is understood their main aim is to keep Jorginho and maintain their pursuit of the Serie A title.

Fiorentina currently lead the table alongside Inter Milan on 27 points, with Roma (26) and Napoli (25) making up the chasing pack.
Jorginho has made 12 appearances for the club this season and has been central to their push in the league.

His performances have reportedly alerted United and Arsenal to his possible availability, while Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp is said to be keen.

But Jorginho's agent has also been talking and insists all is well at Napoli.

"Offers from England? That's a question for Cristiano Giuntoli [Napoli sporting director], not me," Joao Santos told Radio Crc.

"Certainly he's doing well, so it's normal that he'd arouse the interest of the big teams.

"I don't know if Napoli are planning to conduct any negotiations.

"If there are teams following him it's obviously because they think Jorginho would be helpful to their cause.

"I've talked with Giuntoli by telephone, not just to talk about a renewal, but also to improve the lad's situation.

"As for a renewal, if Napoli want to talk, we're ready to discuss it soon."

Source: Daily Express