Chelsea Close to Selling Lukaku to Napoli

Chelsea FC is reportedly optimistic about finalizing a deal to sell striker Romelu Lukaku to Napoli this weekend. Napoli's director, Giovanni Manna, is currently in London to negotiate terms for the Belgian international, who was signed by Chelsea for £97.5 million in 2021. The club is seeking a permanent transfer, having previously included a £37.8 million clause in Lukaku's contract before he was loaned to Roma last year. Despite initial lower bids from Napoli being rejected, discussions between the two clubs have been constructive, with both sides nearing a compromise. Napoli is showing increased willingness to meet Chelsea's asking price, and negotiations have shifted towards structuring the payment in installments rather than a lump sum. This approach may facilitate a smoother agreement. Lukaku, who has been training separately with other players not in Chelsea's immediate plans, has expressed no desire to return to the club. His performance during the 2021-22 season saw him score only 15 goals in 44 appearances, leading to subsequent loan spells at Inter Milan and Roma over the past two seasons. Chelsea is eager to resolve Lukaku's situation and remove him from their payroll permanently. As talks progress, both clubs appear hopeful that a resolution can be reached soon, allowing Lukaku to continue his career away from Stamford Bridge.