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The Nigerian striker's departure seems more certain as Napoli coach Antonio Conte has reportedly started communicating with Osimhen's departure
Romelu Lukaku, currently owned by Chelsea, is already engaging with Napoli coach Antonio Conte in preparation for the upcoming season.
As Napoli seeks to finalise a move for their current striker Victor Osimhen, Lukaku has begun integrating into Conte's plans, indicating a significant shift in the club's forward lineup.
Conte already in conversation with Lukaku
According to reports from Sky Sport Italia and TMW, Antonio Conte has started providing training instructions to Romelu Lukaku, despite the Belgian striker not being officially part of the Napoli squad yet.
Lukaku's current absence from Chelsea's pre-season tour in the United States, alongside Italy's talent Cesare Casadei, highlights his anticipated departure from Stamford Bridge.
Napoli and Chelsea have been in continuous discussions regarding Lukaku's transfer, with the financial aspects of the deal being a primary focus. Chelsea initially sought a fee of €44 million but are now willing to negotiate closer to €35 million. Napoli, on the other hand, aims to secure the striker for around €25 million.
Lukaku eager to join up with Conte
Romelu Lukaku has expressed a strong desire to reunite with Antonio Conte, who previously managed him at Inter Milan.
This sentiment is reflected in Lukaku's reported willingness to accept a significant pay cut to facilitate the move. Currently earning approximately €11 million per season at Chelsea, Lukaku is prepared to reduce his salary to around €6 million per season at Napoli.
The pair have already worked well together at Inter, winning the 2021 Serie A title together with the Nerazzurri in 2021.
The Belgian striker's potential move is poised to strengthen Napoli's attacking options, especially as the club navigates the likely exit of Victor Osimhen, who has been linked with several top European clubs.
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