Napoli's striker crisis deepens as Romelu Lukaku is set to follow Victor Osimhen's path toward an acrimonious exit from the club. The Belgian forward, who arrived in 2024 to replace the Nigerian star, now faces a strained relationship with the club's hierarchy and coach, leading to his likely departure at the end of the season.
Lukaku's Controversial Absence
Lukaku has been at the center of controversy after missing training without authorization. According to reports, the 32-year-old chose to rehabilitate his hamstring injury in Belgium without the club's permission, sparking tensions. Despite having one year left on his three-year contract, Napoli is willing to let him leave this summer for a reduced fee.
Osimhen's Troubled Exit
Victor Osimhen helped Napoli win the Serie A title in the 2022/23 season, but that triumph marked the beginning of a tumultuous end to his relationship with the club. The Super Eagles forward signed a contract extension that summer, which gave Napoli leverage in negotiations, but his high wages deterred potential suitors. In the summer of 2024, a series of collapsed moves forced Osimhen to join Galatasaray on loan. He helped the Turkish club win the league, and the deal was made permanent for €75 million.
Interestingly, Chelsea attempted to include Lukaku in negotiations for Osimhen, but both players rejected the proposal, and the deals were handled separately. Lukaku arrived as Osimhen's replacement even before the Nigerian left on loan. While Osimhen won the title in Turkey, Lukaku helped Napoli secure the Serie A crown, though the club lost the title to Inter Milan this season.
Interest in Lukaku
Clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia have expressed interest in signing Lukaku, but sources indicate the Belgian prefers a return to the Premier League. Napoli is reportedly open to a cut-price deal to facilitate his departure.
Antonio Conte's Criticism
Napoli manager Antonio Conte has publicly criticized Lukaku over the recent issues, stating that the club kept him in the dark about the situation. Conte's frustration has grown as the team struggles on the pitch and loses its title defense.
Lukaku's exit marks another chapter in Napoli's turbulent striker history, with the club now searching for a reliable forward to lead their attack in the coming seasons.
