Romelu Lukaku could leave Napoli for France, with Monaco having made an enquiry about a possible deal for the 33-year-old Belgium striker, according to Foot Mercato.
Monaco are assessing their attacking options as Folarin Balogun is expected to leave the club. The Ligue 1 side have already requested information about Lukaku’s availability and the terms of a potential transfer.
Napoli are understood to be prepared to let Lukaku go for about €10m. The Italian club need to sell the striker in order to complete several incoming transfers, making his departure an important part of their plans for the transfer window.
One player being considered as a possible replacement is Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus.
Lukaku’s future at Napoli has been complicated by a series of injury problems. He spent 196 days out of action and missed 34 matches in all competitions.
As a result, the Belgian made only seven appearances last season. Across those games, he played 64 minutes in total and scored one goal.
His fitness record has not been the only concern for Napoli’s management. The club’s senior figures have also been unhappy with his conduct, with a March incident becoming a particular source of frustration.
Lukaku left the Belgium squad because of an injury but then did not return to Napoli, instead choosing to continue his rehabilitation in his home country. That decision came despite the Italian club’s demands that he report back.
Napoli’s willingness to accept a fee of about €10m could therefore allow Monaco to pursue a move, although the information-gathering stage of the potential transfer is still under way.
The possible departure of Balogun has prompted Monaco to consider alternatives in attack, while Napoli’s need to create room for new arrivals has left the club open to Lukaku’s sale. The Belgian’s limited involvement last season and the strained relationship with the club have further increased the likelihood of an exit.
Monaco are now among the clubs monitoring Lukaku’s situation as Napoli decide how to reshape their forward line.
