Lukaku to Napoli, here we go — Conte gets his man to push Osimhen further away from Napoli

Lukaku and Conte at Inter Milan (left), Napoli icon Victor Osimhen (right).

Lukaku to Napoli, here we go — Conte gets his man to push Osimhen further away from Napoli

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:42 - 24.08.2024

Romelu Lukaku is set to be reunited with former boss Antonio Conte who has been without a recognised striker at Napoli after he sidelined unsettled icon Victor Osimhen

There is a major development in the Victor Osimhen transfer saga this summer after renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku is on the verge of joining Napoli in a permanent deal.

Pulse Sports Nigeria can report that this move comes as a significant boost for Napoli's new manager Antonio Conte, who has been grappling with a challenging start to his tenure at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.

Romano reported on social media: "Romelu Lukaku to Napoli, here we go! Verbal agreement in place between clubs.

Chelsea accept €30m fixed fee plus add-ons up to €15m for €45m potential package. Permanent transfer brokered by Ali Barat for Epic Sports. Lukaku will sign a 3-year deal at Napoli until 2027."

Antonio Conte and Romelu Lukaku
Antonio Conte and Romelu Lukaku in 2021 (Imago/Gribaudi/ImagePhoto) Napoli boss Antonio Conte reportedly wants to work with Romelu Lukaku but faces competition from AC Milan (Imago/Gribaudi/ImagePhoto)

Conte, who had previously distanced himself from the ongoing Victor Osimhen transfer saga, appears to have secured a proven goalscorer in Lukaku.

The Belgian striker's arrival is widely seen as a direct replacement for Osimhen, whose future at Napoli remains uncertain following his expressed desire to leave the club this summer.

Victor Osimhen wants a new challenge after helping Napoli end their 33-year wait for a Serie A title. | Credit: Imago

Osimhen's potential departure has been a cloud hanging over the Italian side, and Lukaku's signing could finally bring clarity to the situation.

Conte's need for a reliable striker has been evident in Napoli's poor start to the season, with the team suffering two defeats and managing only a draw in their opening three matches.

Antonio Conte has had a difficult start to life at Napoli.
Antonio Conte has had a difficult start to life at Napoli.

Notably, Osimhen has been absent from all these fixtures, underlining the urgent need for reinforcement in the attacking department.

The former Inter Milan coach will be hoping that Lukaku's arrival can spark a turnaround in Napoli's fortunes.

Osimhen has missed all Napoli's competitive matches under Conte.
Osimhen has missed all Napoli's competitive matches under Conte.

The Belgian international brings a wealth of Serie A experience, having enjoyed a successful spell with Conte at Inter Milan before his return to Chelsea.

As Napoli looks to rebuild and reclaim their position as Serie A contenders, the acquisition of Lukaku represents a statement of intent.

Romelu Lukaku finds a new home in Naples. || (Photo Credit: Roma/X)

And with the transfer window nearing its close, all eyes will be on how quickly Lukaku can integrate into Conte's system and whether this move will finally bring the Osimhen saga to a conclusion, especially following the revelation that the Super Eagles is set to sign for Chelsea.

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