Napoli has made a fresh bid for Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku following renewed discussions between the two clubs, according to a report.
Antonio Conte considers Lukaku his top target to strengthen his attacking options, and Chelsea is open to a permanent transfer, although they have held firm on their £37m valuation.
Napoli’s initial loan offer of €30m (£25.4m) was rejected, but they have now come back with another €30m bid to secure Lukaku’s services permanently this summer, as reported by Gianluca Di Marzio.
Chelsea favors an immediate transfer to increase pressure on Napoli to sell Victor Osimhen before the transfer window closes. A loan deal would not impact Napoli’s finances, allowing them to retain Osimhen as well.
Chelsea is yet to respond to Napoli’s latest offer.
According to BBC Sport, Napoli is also in talks with Chelsea regarding midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka.
Blues manager Enzo Maresca has cautioned Chukwuemeka about his playing time prospects at Stamford Bridge this season. Several Premier League clubs have shown interest, but Chelsea may prefer sending him to Napoli to aid in lowering Osimhen’s price.
Despite potential proceeds from Lukaku and Chukwuemeka’s sales, Chelsea’s immediate goal is to secure Osimhen on a temporary basis.
As it stands, Osimhen is hesitant about a loan move without an obligation to make it permanent, and his high wage demands could pose a challenge.
READ THE LATEST CHELSEA NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP