Napoli have stepped up their search for a forward after Romelu Lukaku sustained a severe thigh muscle injury in a pre-season friendly, ruling him out for the start of the 2025-26 Serie A season. Under Antonio Conte’s leadership, the Italian champions have initiated talks with representatives of Nigeria striker Tolu Arokodare, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Genk value the 24 year old at around €20–25 million. Arokodare, who led the Belgian Pro League in scoring last season with 21 goals and six assists across 40 appearances, offers a towering presence at 6 ft 6 in and matches Lukaku’s aerial prowess making him an apt stylistic replacement.
This move follows Napoli’s earlier enquiry into Manchester United’s Rasmus Højlund, as the club looks to shore up its attacking options before the transfer window shuts in about two weeks . With Victor Osimhen off to Galatasaray and Giacomo Raspadori sold to Atlético Madrid, Napoli currently rely solely on Lorenzo Lucca—who recently joined from Udinese to lead their front line.
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Other targets under consideration include Juventus’s Dusan Vlahovic and Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta; however, Arokodare’s proven goal-scoring record in Belgium and relative affordability make him a compelling candidate. He also earned his first senior cap for Nigeria in 2025 and has attracted interest from clubs in England and Germany.
Editorial
We observe Napoli pivoting decisively in response to Lukaku’s setback, recognising that adaptability can be the difference between stagnation and survival. Arokodare’s profile is striking: the physicality, the goal-scoring pedigree, the fresh energy all elements that could revitalise Conte’s frontline.
Relying solely on Lorenzo Lucca would leave Napoli exposed, particularly with Champions League commitments looming. By engaging Arokodare’s camp, they exhibit both ambition and urgency. He might be the kind of galvanising force that redefines their season rather than merely fills a vacancy.
Assessing value in the modern market is delicate. Yet, targeting a prolific domestic league striker who remains economically viable suggests a calculated strategy. This move could fortify Napoli not just for today, but for the weeks and months that lie ahead. We sense that this could mark the start of a new chapter—one where opportunity born of adversity becomes the catalyst for reinvention.
Did You Know?
- Tolu Arokodare made his professional debut in Italy, with SPAL’s youth system before moving to Genk.
- Genk’s academy is renowned, producing stars such as Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois.
- Napoli last won Scudetto in 2023, with Victor Osimhen playing a starring role in their title push.
- A 6 ft 6 striker is rare in Serie A, where technical finesse often outweighs physical dominance. Arokodare’s height could offer tactical variation.
- Lukaku suffered a similar thigh injury in 2021, missing several months after a rectus femoris tear, underscoring how delicate such injuries can be for power athletes.
