Atlanta step forwards for unwanted Napoli striker Lukaku

Atlanta United are actively pursuing the services of Napoli striker Romelu Lukaku, despite the Italian club's reluctance to part with the player. The 33-year-old Belgian, who joined Napoli from Chelsea in 2024 on a three-year contract, has been involved in the team's Scudetto-winning campaign in the 2024-25 season, but his playing time has been limited due to an injury-hit 2025-26 season.

Lukaku's agent has made it clear that he is "not the kind of person who stays where he's not wanted." According to Belgian sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Atlanta United is making 'serious efforts' to secure Lukaku's transfer this summer. Negotiations, which are in an 'early stage', could see the MLS side involved in a deal worth around €10 million, although the main hurdle for prospective buyers is Lukaku's salary of approximately €8 million per season.