Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis claims Manchester City are making discussions regarding a deal for Kalidou Koulibaly difficult due to a Jorginho grudge they have held since 2018.
The Premier League heavyweights have long been linked with a raid on Serie A ranks for a commanding Senegalese centre-half.
Pep Guardiola was expected to step up that interest in the current window, with City still in the market for reinforcements at the heart of their back four.
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The Blues are, however, opting against entering into direct talks with Napoli.