Third Dutchman linked to Napoli after Lukaku sidelined for ‘three to five months’ | OneFootball

Napoli will be without Romelu Lukaku for a while, as the injured Belgian forward requires thigh surgery. According to Italian media, the club are looking at possible replacements, with Joshua Zirkzee shortlisted.

Lukaku was injured last week in a friendly against Olympiacos and an examination revealed that surgery was necessary, which will reportedly sideline the Belgian striker for three to five months. Napoli have therefore felt compelled to enter the transfer market to find a suitable replacement.

Zirkzee’s name has been mentioned in the search for a new striker. According to Tuttomercatoweb, Antonio Conte reportedly has him at the top of his wish list. Corriere della Sera also report on Napoli’s interest in the Dutch international, who appears likely to leave Manchester United.

Zirkzee was already linked with Napoli earlier this summer when United considered a swap deal for Victor Osimhen, who ultimately left for Galatasaray. Teammate Rasmus Højlund, Nikola Krstovic (Lecce), and Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea) have also been linked with Napoli.

Previously in Serie A, Zirkzee scored a total of 13 goals and provided seven assists during his time with Bologna and Parma. While this earned him a transfer to Manchester United a year ago, he has admittedly fared less well in England, managing only seven goals and three assists in 49 appearances. With a contract running until the summer of 2029, Zirkzee’s transfer value is currently estimated at 30 million euros.

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield