A swap deal involving Napoli talisman Victor Osimhen and Chelsea outcast Romelu Lukaku is reportedly off the table. Per Fabrizio Romano, the Blues consider the Belgium international untradable and would only consider cash offers for their misfit.
The report says it may take up to £38 million to convince Chelsea to sell Lukaku. The 31-year-old has emerged as a potential transfer target for Napoli. Antonio Conte, who’s about to take charge of the Partenopei, admires the robust striker and sees him as an ideal replacement for Osimhen.
Lukaku was the focal point of Conte’s triumphant Serie A campaign with Inter in 2020/21. His entire tactical concept at Giuseppe Meazza rested on the Belgian’s shoulders. And it’s barely surprising he wants to make him one of his marquee signings at Napoli, especially with Osimhen on his way out.
But despite reportedly considering a player-plus-cash offer for the Nigerian, Napoli must take a different approach to land Lukaku. Aurelio De Laurentiis’ club will undoubtedly make big bucks from Osimhen’s departure. And they may have to use a portion of that money to bring Conte’s pupil to the Diego Maradona Stadium.
Napoli witnessed Lukaku’s scoring prowess in 2023/24 as he enjoyed a decent season at Roma. However, his loan stint at the Stadio Olimpico is drawing to a close, with the Giallorossi unable to meet the financial requirements to turn his move permanent.
With Lukaku heading back to Stamford Bridge and Conte looking for a reunion, it could be a matter of time before the Belgian returns to Serie A – this time with Napoli.
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