Report: Lucas Leiva to join Napoli on loan

Napoli are reportedly close to signing Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva on loan.

The 27-year-old moved to Anfield from Gremio in 2007, but the bulk of his career in the Premier League has been harmed by a succession of injuries.

According to Goal.com, Napoli have emerged as the favourites to sign the Brazilian, but the midfielder will move on loan, rather than on a permanent contract.

Liverpool's signing of Emre Can from Bayer Leverkusen is expected to directly impact Lucas's chances of a regular role in Brendan Rodgers's first XI next season.