Napoli have been working hard this summer to find the right man for their front line.
The club’s top priority had been a big name from the Premier League.
The player has pace, power, and experience in Europe’s top competitions.
They have even held several rounds of talks to make it happen.
But sometimes, the numbers do not add up.
Liverpool want more than £50 million for Darwin Nunez.
That is nearly €60 million. Add to that the forward’s high salary, and suddenly, the deal feels more like a dream than a plan.
Negotiations have been steady, with agents and intermediaries involved, but no agreement is in sight.
Even though Nunez is open to joining Napoli, the cost is holding things back.
Without tax breaks and with such a high wage, bringing the Uruguayan striker to Serie A looks tough.
Napoli are still in contact, still hopeful, but they are not standing still either.
There is a backup plan in motion, one that comes from within Italy; a tall, powerful forward who has impressed again in Serie A.
He scored 12 goals last season and continues to grow with each passing month. At 24, he is just entering his prime.
This player would cost around €30 million. That is half of what Liverpool want for Nunez.
His salary is also much lower, making him a far more manageable signing.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the name Napoli are now strongly considering is Lorenzo Lucca.
He plays for Udinese and has been on Napoli’s radar since last year.
The club sees him as a smart investment, less flashy, but full of potential.
Right now, Napoli are still sorting out Victor Osimhen’s future.
Once that is done, they will have more room to act.
Whether it is Lorenzo Lucca or Darwin Nunez, the club plans to move fast.
One way or another, they are getting a striker.
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