Lukaku's Future in Doubt as MLS Club Expresses Interest

Romelu Lukaku, the 33-year-old forward, may be on the verge of leaving SSC Napoli this summer. Reports indicate that a club from Major League Soccer has reached out to the Italian champions regarding the Belgian striker.

According to Sky Italia, Atlanta United has made an inquiry to Napoli about acquiring Lukaku. The Serie A side is reportedly open to letting the striker go, with the asking price set at approximately seven million euros.

The potential transfer comes in light of Atlanta's recent decision to loan Emmanuel Latte Lath to Union Berlin, which has opened up a spot for Lukaku on their Designated Player list. This move reflects a challenging season for the Belgian at Napoli, where he has struggled to find his form.

From Star Player to Benchwarmer

Lukaku played a pivotal role in Napoli's championship win in the 2024/25 season, scoring 14 league goals. However, a subsequent injury significantly hindered his performance, compounded by issues with former coach Antonio Conte.

In the past season, Lukaku made only five appearances in Serie A, managing to score just once. Across all competitions, he totaled seven appearances and spent only 94 minutes on the pitch, unable to surpass Rasmus Hojlund in the pecking order.

Under new head coach Massimiliano Allegri, Lukaku appears to be sidelined once again. His agent, Federico Pastorello, has made it clear that Lukaku is unwilling to accept a role as a substitute.

Contract Situation

Lukaku's contract with Napoli extends until 2027. The club had invested around 30 million euros to bring him in from Chelsea in the summer of 2024. Throughout his career, clubs including Napoli, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Everton, and Manchester United have collectively paid over 351 million euros in transfer fees for the Belgian striker.