Napoli midfielder Ezequiel Lavezzi is close to signing a new deal.

The Argentina international has been in negotiations with Napoli for several months.

Alejandro Mazzoni said: "Lavezzi wanted to play against Inter Milan, but the coach did not want to risk a relapse and his situation must be monitored with the technical staff.

"On the renewal we have already said everything with president (Aurelio) De Laurentiis, this was the will of his and my client so we are delighted."