Chelsea is keen to offload Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku this summer, with a transfer to Napoli appearing likely, especially since Lukaku is eager to reunite with former Inter coach Antonio Conte at the Italian club.
However, despite a personal agreement between Lukaku and Napoli, the transfer has stalled. Reports indicate that Chelsea might have reached a deal with Aston Villa for Lukaku instead, leaving the situation uncertain.
The Telegraph reveals that Napoli has yet to make an official bid for Lukaku. Chelsea is demanding that Napoli cover the full £37.8 million ($48 million) release clause in his contract, but the Serie A side is hesitant to meet this demand at present.
Further complicating matters is the future of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, who has been linked with a move away from the club. Napoli is reportedly keen to sell Osimhen for a significant fee, but no suitable offers have materialized.
With Napoli potentially unable to afford Lukaku while still holding Osimhen, a swap deal involving the two players could be a potential resolution to the current impasse.