Former Napoli striker Roberto Sosa says Rasmus Højlund needs stronger competition in training and believes the club should sign Monza forward Gustavo Varela in January.
Speaking on Radio Marte, the Argentine, known as ‘Pampa’, questioned whether Højlund can develop while competing mainly with Lorenzo Lucca.
“Would Monza’s Gustavo Varela be the right signing in January? It’s easy to say yes,” Sosa said, according to Areanapoli.
“Højlund can’t play every game. If you want the Dane to improve, you have to put him up against someone strong in training during the week.
“How is he going to improve competing with Lucca? Maybe Lorenzo can improve that way, but not him. Lucca to Lecce? He’d struggle to be a starter there too.”
Lucca has faced heavy criticism, with Troy Deeney describing him earlier this week as “one of the worst strikers I’ve ever seen”.
Napoli have already contacted Varela’s representatives. The Monza forward currently leads Serie A’s scoring charts with nine goals and has recently received his first Portugal call-up.
Lucca, meanwhile, is expected to leave Napoli on loan.
“Varela could be a useful signing to increase the competition up front and raise Rasmus’ level,” Sosa added. “I like Højlund, but are you really convinced he can score eight to 10 goals in the next few games?”
Højlund missed a clear opportunity from two yards during Napoli’s 1-1 draw with Lazio on Sunday.
