Transfer Talk: Lukaku's move from Chelsea to Napoli imminent

Posted Thursday, August 22, 2024 by ESPN

Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku is set to complete a deal to Napoli, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Chelsea have been keen to offload the 31-year-old Belgium international this summer, with Napoli favorites to sign the striker for most of the transfer window. It is reported that Napoli's representatives will travel to London in the next 24 hours with all parties involved confident of a deal being struck.

Lukaku has reportedly been keen on a return to Italy, where he spent last season on loan with AS Roma, notching 21 goals across all competitions. The former Manchester United forward is under contract at Chelsea until 2026, putting the Blues under pressure to part ways with him this summer, before his valuation plummets next year when he will have just 12 months left on his contract. Napoli are reportedly offering €25 million plus add-ons.

Chelsea have also been reported to hold an interest in Napoli star Victor Osimhen, with the west London outfit eager to add to their forward options themselves. However, a move has not materialised so far, and it looks unlikely that the Nigeria international will be involved in the deal between the two clubs for Lukaku.

Romelu Lukaku's long-awaited move to Napoli appears set to be finalised this week.