Why ex-Chelsea striker may replace Osimhen at Napoli

Napoli could attempt to sign former Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku as Victor Osimhen’s replacement if Antonio Conte is appointed as coach in the summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Nigeria star Osimhen has made a name for himself following his impressive performances for Napoli in the last two years. Last season, the Super Eagles star scored 26 domestic goals to help the Partenopeans to their first Scudetto win in over 30 years.

This season, Osimhen has continued his impressive performances for Napoli despite being hampered by injuries. He has recorded 13 goals and three assists in 20 Serie A appearances. The Nigeria international has attracted a lot interest from several top clubs in Europe, and he seems to be nearing the end of his time at Napoli despite having two years on his current deal.

Currently, Arsenal, Chelsea, and PSG appear to be the frontrunners for the 25-year-old’s signature, with Napoli expecting up to €130 million in transfer fees. However, nothing is official yet.

If Osimhen leaves Napoli, the club would have to sign a replacement. However, the replacement may be decided by the next coach because Francesco Calzona may leave at the end of the campaign, and there are strong talks that Antonio Conte will take over.

There are talks that Napoli could move for Lille’s Jonathan David or Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee, but that is all speculation currently. Meanwhile, Italian football expert Valter De Maggio has asserted that if Conte is appointed as Napoli coach, he would favour a transfer for Romelu Lukaku.

Lukaku and Conte worked together at Inter Milan, and the Italian tactician could be keen to renew that relationship. The Belgian would also arrive at a cheap price for Napoli.