Napoli are facing a challenging situation in the final weeks of the transfer window, particularly concerning their striker position. Victor Osimhen remains a Napoli player over a month into the summer transfer market, creating a complex scenario for the club. His continued presence is becoming problematic; he sometimes trains with the team, other time work out in the gym, but has not participated in friendlies and is not expected to be on the bench for the upcoming Coppa Italia match against Modena. Although Osimhen has a €130 million release clause, no official offers have been made for him.
Calciomercato reported that Antonio Conte is eager to start working with a new striker, with Romelu Lukaku being the primary target. Conte wishes to proceed with the Lukaku deal even before Osimhen’s departure. However, financial considerations are crucial, as Osimhen earns nearly €11 million per season, while Lukaku would command around €6 million. If Osimhen remains, Napoli could find themselves with two potential starting strikers, both carrying significant salaries. Therefore, Napoli aim to sell Osimhen before securing Lukaku.
Conte is pressed for time as the season’s official start looms. Napoli faces Modena at the Maradona Stadium for the Coppa Italia’s round of 32, with Osimhen not starting and Lukaku yet to join. Other physical strikers, such as Simeone and Cheddira, are on the market, leaving Raspadori likely to lead the attack, as he did in recent friendlies against Brest and Girona. With the Serie A opener against Verona just 10 days away, Conte hopes to have Lukaku in the squad soon, although it remains uncertain.
