Napoli are set to replace outgoing manager Luciano Spalletti with Marcelo Gallardo according to reports in Italy.

The 47-year-old Argentine has won everything there is to win in his homeland with River Plate and according to Italian reputable journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Gallardo is now waiting for the right opportunity to manage in Europe after leaving the club at the end of last year.

Marcelo Gallardo to succeed experienced coach Luciano Spalletti

As reported last week, Spalletti is preparing to leave Napoli despite leading the club to their first Scudetto in 33 years after falling out with President Aurelio De Laurentiis, leading to a huge backlash from some sections of the fans against the ownership of the club.

According to Di Marzio, De Laurentiis has decided to go ahead with his instincts, however, and select the young and hungry Gallardo who De Laurentiis believes will be able to build on the success founded by former Roma boss Spalletti, who is due to step down when the Serie A season concludes on 4 June.