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Napoli postpone Hamsik's move to China after breakdown in talks

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In a sensational twist, Napoli announced Wednesday they've blocked Marek Hamsik's transfer to Dalian Yifang after the Chinese side broke the terms of their agreement.

Napoli were reportedly set to receive €15 million for the midfielder, but a dispute over the method of payment has now put the deal in doubt.

Hamsik had already signed his contract with Dalian Yifang, according to Sky Sport Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio. It would've paid him a reported €9 million per season.

It's unclear whether the two sides will reach a new agreement.

Napoli manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed after Saturday's win over Sampdoria that Hamsik had asked to leave the club.

It looked like an unceremonious ending to an 11-year relationship between club and player that transcended football. Hamsik famously refused more lucrative offers from AC Milan and Juventus to remain with Napoli and broke several club records in the process.

President Aurelio De Laurentiis had given his blessing to the move, noting that Napoli had enough midfielders to finish the season.

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