“It’s a very complicated situation, you know that very well. I’m sorry because everything is blocked, I can’t say anything else, what can I say? We have to go on an adventure with certain particular parameters, that of the cost, the commitment and the ability to convince the players to come to Naples without the European Cup. A considerable handicap.” These are the words of Antonio Conte a few days ago in a press conference when discussing the Napoli transfer window. A few weeks after his arrival, the Italian coach has already put pressure on his management regarding the recruits who are still not arriving and who are seriously starting to penalize the team. It must be said that the non-sale, for the moment, of Victor Osimhen, is blocking almost all the files of the Neapolitan club. And especially in the offensive sector.
For many weeks, Conte has clearly explained to his management that he wanted to recruit Romelu Lukaku in the attack. But the negotiations were not progressing at all and Chelsea did not seem to want to give Naples any gifts. The Italian management, led by its president Aurelio De Laurentiis, did not want to give in either and the situation was going round in circles. But it took pressure from Antonio Conte and a slap received on the first day of Serie A (3-0 defeat against Hellas Verona) to make Naples move.
Lukaku finally arrives
According to information from Sky Italy And Relevoan agreement was reached last night between Naples and Chelsea for the transfer of the Belgian striker. The Italian club will pay 30 million euros to secure his services. According to Sky ItalyChelsea will retain 30% of a future resale while Relevo rather evokes a bonus that could go up to 15 million (in addition to the 30M) for Lukaku. A positive point for Antonio Conte who will therefore find his favorite striker that he had already trained at Inter Milan (Lukaku’s best season) but also at Chelsea. On the salary side, Lukaku should receive 8 million euros per year on his 3-year contract.
But that’s not all. Naples also wants to grab the stake concerning Scott McTominay. The Scottish midfielder from Manchester United is on the way out and Sky Italy announces that Napoli has made a 25 million offer to get him back. An agreement could be reached in the coming days and the various parties are optimistic. In his desire to strengthen his midfield, Conte could even see Billy Gilmour arrive from Brighton. Napoli also hopes to get him back, but is waiting to sell Michael Folorunsho to make an offer. But Napoli’s transfer window is finally accelerating (while waiting for Osimhen to leave) and Antonio Conte can breathe.
