Pepe Reina transfer latest: Napoli boss admits defeat for Liverpool goalkeeper, leaving the door open for Arsenal to make a move
Benitez admitted his Serie A side couldn't afford Reina's wages
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Pepe Reina will return to Liverpool after Napoli boss Rafael Benitez admitted defeat in his attempt to try and make last season’s loan move permanent.
Benitez admitted that the Italian club can’t afford the Spanish goalkeeper’s wages, leaving a possible move to Arsenal open.
"Yes. Pepe has two years left on his contract at Liverpool,” Benitez told talkSPORT.
"He has to go back and he'll stay there. We can't afford Pepe's wages.
"The Premier League is a very big league and, in Serie A, we don't pay big wages like in England. He will have to fight for his position at Liverpool."
The Spaniard made 30 league appearances last season to help Benitez's men finish third in Serie A and qualify for the Champions League.
Reds manager Brendan Rodgers indicated earlier this year that he does not see a future for Reina on Merseyside.
Simon Mignolet has a firm grasp on the No 1 shirt under Rodgers, having enjoyed an excellent debut season on Merseyside as Liverpool launched a challenge for the Premier League title.
According to reports, Reina is a target for Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger who is seeking an upgrade on Wojciech Szczesny.
Reina is currently in Brazil with the Spain squad - they have their opening World Cup game against the Netherlands tonight.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments