Napoli have reportedly reached an agreement in principle with Chelsea for the transfer of Romelu Lukaku, although the deal hinges on the future of Super Eagles attacker Victor Osimhen.
Lukaku, who had continued his career away from Chelsea, played for Roma on loan due to his strained relationship with former manager Thomas Tuchel. Despite being on Chelsea’s books, Lukaku has not been a part of their plans for some time.
Napoli’s interest in Lukaku is driven by their new manager, Antonio Conte, who has a well-known admiration for the Belgian striker. Conte and Lukaku previously enjoyed success together, winning the Serie A title with Inter Milan.
According to Calcio Mercato, Chelsea had intended to sell Lukaku permanently and set a price tag of €38 million. However, the agreement with Napoli has reportedly been struck for less than €30 million, contingent upon Osimhen’s departure from the club.
Conte recently expressed his lingering respect for Lukaku in an interview, indicating his preference to have Lukaku on his team rather than facing him as an opponent. This sentiment underscores Conte’s desire to reunite with the striker, hoping to leverage their past success for Napoli’s benefit.
The situation with Victor Osimhen is a critical factor in this potential transfer. Osimhen’s desire to leave Napoli for better opportunities has been an open secret.
The Nigerian striker was signed with a release clause explicitly to facilitate his eventual departure. However, the release clause is set at a hefty €130 million, a figure that has deterred potential suitors, especially given Osimhen’s recent season marred by injuries and inconsistent performances.
Osimhen’s high release clause and his injury struggles have complicated his transfer prospects. While there is significant interest in the striker, the financial demands of his release clause have proven to be a major stumbling block.
Clubs interested in Osimhen are wary of investing such a substantial amount in a player whose recent form has been compromised by health issues.
For Chelsea, the sale of Lukaku would represent a significant financial and strategic move. Lukaku’s departure could provide Chelsea with the funds needed to pursue other transfer targets and strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
Boehly’s plans for Chelsea involve restructuring the team, and offloading players who do not fit into the club’s future vision is a part of this strategy.
For Napoli, acquiring Lukaku would be a significant coup, especially under Conte’s management. Conte’s familiarity with Lukaku’s style and strengths could help integrate the striker seamlessly into Napoli’s lineup.
However, the deal’s success hinges on finding a resolution to Osimhen’s situation. If Osimhen can secure a move away from Napoli, it would pave the way for Lukaku’s arrival.
