Valencia talk with Napoli's Elseid Hysaj

The Albanian defender is comfortably in either full-back position and has been a regular fixture in Napoli’s side since his move from Empoli in 2015 – making 135 Serie A appearances in that time.

“We have been in contact with Valencia since this morning. The little time we have can be a problem, we will try to accelerate the operation in the next few hours and make the move happen,” the player’s agent told Sky Sports.

The 25-year-old’s release clause in Italy is reported to stand at €45m but he is said to be available at notably under that valuation.

Hysaj did not start in Napoli’s first game of the season against Fiorentina and appeared only as a last substitute, playing six minutes for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Piccini is thought to be a long-term injury absentee.