Antonio Conte mildly hinted at an interest in Romelu Lukaku as a replacement for Victor Osimhen, but Napoli are likely to fail with a loan bid.
Romelu Lukaku could add another club to his list once he returns from the Euros, as he’s destined to leave Chelsea this summer. The mega-transfer from Inter Milan a few years ago barely worked for six months before the wheels started coming off.
Lukaku has since gone back to Inter Milan for a season and created much-publicised drama last season with his decision to join Juventus. Eventually, after angering the BNianconeri fans and burning bridges with the Inter Milan supporters, he went on to join Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma on loan.
The Italian Capital side are unlikely to sign hiom on a permanent basis, especially after Mourinho’s departure. AC Milan are interested in the 31-year-old as they seek a replacement for the departed Olivier Giroud, as the club would like an experienced striker of Lukaku’s stature.
Antonio Conte has been keen on signing Lukaku, as he’s been one of the managers who has been able to unlock his potential in a system. The Italian manager has taken over as Napoli’s new manager, although the club are only considering a loan move for the Belgian.
Chelsea are not entertaining a loan deal, as they want to get rid of the 31-year-old once and for all. As things stand, Saudi Arabia might be interested in it. However, Lukaku reportedly has yet to express interest in moving to the Middle East, as he wishes to continue playing for a top European club.
In his comments on Calcio Mercato, Antonio Conte seemingly hinted at a possible interest in Lukaku as a striker option this summer. He might have also suggested that the Belgian might be seen as a replacement for Victor Osimhen.
Conte said, “My goal is to improve the players. I have often succeeded, and I know that I can count on a good base in Naples. We will have to do the right things. Romelu is a strong player, like Osimhen, an excellent player. There are no comments to make, and I hope to always have them on your side and never against.”
Osimhen could have played his last game for Napoli, as there’s an apparent agreement between him and Aurelio Di Laurentiis to let him leave for a good enough offer. As things stand, he has a €130 million release clause, which no club are eager to trigger, although things could change should Napoli reduce the asking price.
