Premier League-linked Hysaj confirms desire for Napoli exit

Premier League-linked Elseid Hysaj has admitted he is “ready for a new challenge” while his agent admits Napoli will have to lower their asking price if he is to find a new home.

The 25-year-old Hysaj just completed his fourth season with Napoli after having moved from Empoli, where he was a key contributor for three seasons, helping them earn promotion to Serie A.

The Albania full-back featured 27 times in Serie A for Carlo Ancelotti’s side this season, contributing a pair of assists, while appearing another four times in the Europa League.

But Hysaj has conceded he is ready for something different, telling Digitalb: “I’m absolutely ready for a new challenge because I need change.

“I’m not the type of person who likes to stay at a club for too long. I want to have new experiences, learn about a new country, meet new people, play for another team and maybe try to win something.

“For me, my time at Napoli is over and I hope to find a team that will give me what I need.”

Hysaj’s agent, Mario Giuffredi, confirmed his client wishes to depart, but conceded it will require Napoli lowering their demands, which currently stand at €40 million (£35m/$45m).

“Hysaj has expressed his desire to leave, as he believes his time at Napoli has come to an end after four years and he wants a new experience,” Guiffredi told TV programme In Casa Napoli. “He will leave, there are teams that are interested, however, the club will have to lower their asking price.

“They have a shrewd sporting director in [Cristiano] Giuntoli, and he knows that Hysaj wants to leave, so they know they will have to find a solution to the situation.”

Hysaj has previously been linked with Manchester United, as well as Chelsea, where his former coach at Empoli and Napoli, Maurizio Sarri, currently manages.

However, Sarri may be on his way to Juventus, and the Serie A champions have also been linked to Hysaj. Atletico Madrid have also been reported to be interested.