Romelu Lukaku set to be axed from Napoli squad after persistent no-show | OneFootball

Napoli have made up their mind regarding the immediate future of their star striker Romelu Lukaku.

As reported by La Repubblica, via Area Napoli, the veteran Belgian will not be part of the Napoli squad for the rest of the season.

Lukaku has been struggling with injury issues since the start of the season, having made just seven appearances all term. Despite being ostensibly fit, he has refused multiple call-ups from the club and has chosen to instead remain in Belgium, where he is continuing his recovery while communicating with the club only via his agent.

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna told DAZN last week that there will be “consequences” for Lukaku’s actions. The player and the club are now set for a face-to-face meeting on Monday, though that is not expected to change the Partenopei‘s stance on Lukaku’s involvement for the rest of the season.

Their recent stand-off has opened the door for an exit in the summer for Lukaku, who played an integral role in Napoli’s title-winning run last season. His unavailability has played a considerable role in hampering Antonio Conte’s attempts at retaining the Serie A title, with his side nine points off leaders Inter with six games to go.

Turkish giants Fenerbahçe have already made contact with Napoli regarding his availability, with Lukaku still have one year remaining on his €7.69m-per-year contract.

Anshuman Joshi | GIFN