Napoli Forced Back Into Transfer Market After Romelu Lukaku Suffers Serious Injury

Napoli face a tough start to their Serie A title defense after star striker Romelu Lukaku was ruled out for at least three months with a serious muscle injury. The setback means the club is urgently searching for a new striker just days before their opening match of the season.

WHAT HAPPENED TO LUKAKU?

Romelu Lukaku suffered a high-grade injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his left thigh during Napoli’s 2-1 pre-season win over Olympiacos. Medical tests revealed the damage was severe enough that the Belgian may require surgery. Lukaku has already started his rehabilitation but will be sidelined until at least November. The injury leaves Napoli with a big gap in their attack, as Lukaku played a key part in last season’s title victory, helping Napoli become Serie A winners by contributing 14 goals and 10 assists in 36 league matches. The club had counted on his experience and firepower to lead the line again this season.

NAPOLI’S PLANS AND THE SEARCH FOR A REPLACEMENT

Napoli’s preparations for the new campaign are now seriously disrupted. With Lukaku out for several months, the club is actively considering new options in the transfer market. Reports suggest they could target strikers such as Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United, Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace, Artem Dovbyk from Roma, and Lecce’s Nikola Krstovic. Summer signing Lorenzo Lucca is currently the only recognized center-forward available for selection. Napoli’s first league match is against Sassuolo, scheduled for August 23. As reigning Serie A champions, they must start strong to keep rivals at bay. Last season, Napoli finished first, narrowly ahead of Inter Milan, while Sassuolo is back from the Serie B for the upcoming season.

A TOUGH ROAD AHEAD FOR NAPOLI

Napoli’s immediate challenge is coping without their leading scorer. Their opening fixtures include matches against Sassuolo and then Lazio, both of which will test their depth and resilience. With just a few days left in the transfer window, the club’s management must act quickly to secure a reliable replacement and ensure Napoli remain competitive at the top of the table. Sassuolo, meanwhile, will be hoping to capitalize on Napoli’s weakened squad as they look to climb from mid-table. Every point is crucial, as Napoli aim to stay ahead of close chasers Juventus and Inter Milan entering the new season. According to reports, Napoli are about to sign Juanlu Sanchez from Sevilla and Miguel Gutierrez from Girona, further indicating their commitment to strengthen the squad amid these challenges.