Napoli ready to cut ties with Belgian-Congolese star Lukaku

Italian giants SSC Napoli are preparing to part ways with Belgian striker of DR Congo descent Romelu Lukaku following a dramatic breakdown in relations that has all but ended the forward’s future in Naples.

Per reports, the club’s hierarchy has reached a firm decision to terminate Lukaku’s contract at the end of the current campaign, despite the deal originally running until the summer of 2027.

The move comes after weeks of tension sparked by the striker’s prolonged absence from training and his controversial decision to remain in Belgium while recovering from injury.

Lukaku, 32, had already raised eyebrows when he missed Belgium’s tour of the United States in March. However, the situation escalated when he failed to return to Napoli afterward, choosing instead to continue his rehabilitation away from the club without authorization. That decision reportedly did not sit well with Napoli’s management or coaching staff, leading to growing frustration behind the scenes.

What initially appeared to be a minor disciplinary issue has since evolved into a complete rupture. Sources suggest that trust between player and club has eroded beyond repair, with Napoli now unwilling to reintegrate the striker into the squad. The club’s stance reflects not only concerns about professionalism but also disappointment over Lukaku’s limited contribution this season.

It has been a campaign to forget for the experienced forward. Plagued by injuries and inconsistency, Lukaku has managed just seven appearances across all competitions, scoring only once. Even more concerning is the fact that he has accumulated a mere 74 minutes of playing time, underlining how peripheral he has become in Napoli’s plans.

The fallout could have wider implications for Lukaku’s international career as well. With such limited action at club level, the striker risks falling out of contention for Belgium’s squad ahead of upcoming major tournaments, including the next World Cup cycle. For a player who has long been a central figure for his national team, the timing could hardly be worse.

Financially, Lukaku’s stock has also taken a hit. Once among Europe’s most feared forwards, his current market valuation is reported to have dropped to around €12 million—a significant decline that reflects both his recent struggles and advancing age.

Napoli, meanwhile, appear ready to move on and reshape their attacking options. The club’s decision signals a desire to rebuild with players fully committed to their project, particularly as they aim to remain competitive both domestically and in European competitions.

For Lukaku, the coming months will be critical. Whether he can revive his career elsewhere or faces a continued decline remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his chapter at Napoli is nearing an abrupt and turbulent end.