The forward says it is his dream is to imitate the Argentina legend by winning the World Cup this year followed by topping Serie A in 2015

Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain has revealed his dream of repeating the exploits of Argentina hero Diego Maradona by winning the World Cup then Scudetto in the space of a year.

The 26-year-old joined Rafa Benitez’s squad from Real Madrid last summer and has enjoyed an impressive maiden season in Serie A, scoring 12 goals as Partenopei sit third behind Juventus and Roma.

Higuain has his eyes set on titles with both club and country – citing the Maradona’s success on the international stage then at Napoli as his inspiration – and says he wants to be “king” at the Stadia San Paolo in the coming seasons.

“This is an important moment for me and for my career,” the forward told La Gazetta dello Sport.

“I want to do what Maradona did: first win the World Cup and then the Scudetto. He triumphed in Mexico with Argentina in 1986 and, a year later, he made Napoli go crazy.

“If I could do this it would really be the ultimate dream. I want to stay in Naples for a long time – here I’m going to be a king.”

Despite trailing leaders Juventus by 13 points, Higuain hasn’t given up hope of claiming the Scudetto this year, or alternatively the Coppa Italia or Europa League crown.

“Hopefully we win something,” he added. “There are three titles at stake, we know it is difficult but we really want to cause a surprise.”

Napoli must overcome a 3-2 disadvantage in their Coppa Italia semi-final second leg on Wednesday against Roma if they want to face Fiorentina in the final.