Chelsea are adamant that they will not part ways with Romelu Lukaku this summer until his release clause is met, amid concrete interest from Serie A giants Napoli.
The Blues inserted a £38 million release clause in Lukaku’s contract before he joined AS Roma on a season-long loan, and Fabrizio Romano claims they will not settle for any less as potential suitors circle.
Napoli are keen to sign Lukaku this summer as they edge closer to appointing former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte as their head coach.
Conte is a huge fan of Lukaku, having worked with the striker during his time at Inter Milan, and the Italian manager is eager to reunite with the Belgian in Naples.
Signing Lukaku could be Conte’s first act as Napoli’s manager, but the Partenopei have to activate his release clause to get a deal over the line.
Chelsea also have a long-standing interest in Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, and there were reports that the Blues were trying to use Lukaku as a makeweight to sign the Nigerian striker.
Osimhen has a €130m release clause in his contract and is expected to cut ties with the Partenopei this summer, with Arsenal also touted as a potential landing spot.
The Nigerian has reiterated his desire to play in the Premier League, sparking rumours of a potential player plus cash deal between Chelsea and Napoli.
However, Romano has poured cold water on the swap deal speculation, claiming the Blues are adamant about recouping Lukaku’s release clause, which complicates a potential move to Napoli.
The Saudi Pro League is also an option for Lukaku. He has previously rejected the advances of the free-spending Middle East clubs but could be more receptive to the idea this summer.
If Chelsea refuse to budge on their stance over Lukaku’s price tag, Napoli would be inclined to return the favour if the Blues act on their interest in Osimhen.
The West Londoners are on the market for a marquee striker, and Osimhen is firmly at the top of their summer wishlist, so it would be interesting to see how the transfer saga unfolds.
