Agent: ‘Why Napoli sold Strinic’

Ivan Strinic’s agent reveals Napoli sold his client because “they knew Faouzi Ghoulam was going to stay”.

The full-back joined Sampdoria on deadline day, and his representative says the move happened because Ghoulam is close to a renewal.

“The Azzurri held onto him while they were waiting for Ghoulam’s renewal,” Tonci Martic explained on Radio Crc.

Ivan Strinic’s agent reveals Napoli sold his client because “they knew Faouzi Ghoulam was going to stay”.

The full-back joined Sampdoria on deadline day, and his representative says the move happened because Ghoulam is close to a renewal.

“The Azzurri held onto him while they were waiting for Ghoulam’s renewal,” Tonci Martic explained on Radio Crc.

“Then once they knew the Algerian was going to stay the President acted very correctly. It wasn’t an easy time, there weren’t many days to go and Napoli made some offers for a renewal or a loan.

“Ivan’s desire was to leave though and he was satisfied. With the past two years on the bench he wasn’t convinced about staying, playing intermittently isn’t easy.

“Not starting cost him the national team and he wants to get back in for the World Cup.

“He was a faithful soldier for Napoli, he played when he was needed and he always did well, even in important games.

“He came for free when [Rafa] Benitez was there and did well, and after six months with Sarri a big €10m offer came in.

“This summer the time came to change atmosphere, but he’ll always keep good memories of Napoli.

“So Ghoulam will renew? It’s not up to me to speak about Ghoulam, but I think so. If we were released, then Ghoulam’s renewal should come soon.”