Transfer Centre

Napoli, AC Milan given hope in pursuit of £25m Premier League striker?

By Carter White | 28 June 2024

Osimhen replacement? £25m Premier League striker 'edging closer' to Italian move

Chelsea's Romelu Lukaku is reportedly willing to discuss a summer move to AC Milan or Napoli, with the Belgian's future set to be away from Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku is reportedly prepared to open talks with Napoli and AC Milan over a potential summer move.

The former Manchester United attacker is currently leading the line for Belgium at Euro 2024 in Germany, where the Red Devils unconvincingly escaped Group E in second place to reach the round of 16.

Despite being backed by many to rival the likes of Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe for the tournament's Golden Boot, Lukaku is yet to register a goal after three matches, however he has seen two goals ruled out by VAR.

Mostly under the leadership of Jose Mourinho, the 31-year-old enjoyed a productive campaign at Roma during 2023-24, firing in 13 goals and setting up teammates thrice in 32 Serie A contests.

With the move to the Giallorossi only being a temporary one, Lukaku is now back at Stamford Bridge, awaiting the latest transfer of his increasingly-nomadic career.

Roma's Romelu Lukaku walks off the pitch after sustaining an injury on April 18, 2024 © Reuters

Napoli, AC Milan handed boost in Lukaku race?

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport - via Football Italia - Lukaku is willing to discuss a transfer to both Napoli and AC Milan ahead of a possible switch back to Italy this summer.

The 118-time international has already spent three years at San Siro in the colours of Inter Milan, firing in 78 goals, particularly thriving under the leadership of Antonio Conte.

He is now in charge at Napoli, who are understood to be keen on a move for Lukaku, however the deal's progression hinges on a major departure from Naples.

The 2023 Serie A champions would only pursue a move for the Chelsea man should leading marksman and talisman Victor Osimhen depart this summer.

Adding further complexity to the situation, it is believed that the West London Blues are only interested in offloading Lukaku permanently, valuing the striker at around €30m (£25.4m).

Roma's Gianluca Mancini celebrates with Romelu Lukaku after the match on April 6, 2024 © Reuters

Lukaku still has plenty to offer at an elite level

Despite being heavily criticised throughout his career - especially during his spell on the red side of Manchester - there is a reason why top European clubs are circling around Lukaku this summer.

Blatantly obvious to any viewers of Belgium's opening three matches at Euro 2024, the 31-year-old provides a unique focal point for his nation's attack, with his bulldozing approach a rarity in the modern game at an elite level.

It is needless to say that his finishing leaves a lot to be desired at times, however what Lukaku can do well should steal more of the headlines as opposed to his shortcomings.

Looking to bag his maiden goal of the tournament, Lukaku will aim to break French hearts when Belgian face Didier Deschamps's side in the round of 16 on Monday evening.