Fenerbahce open talks with Napoli over Romelu Lukaku transfer

Fenerbahce have begun negotiations with Napoli over a proposed deal to sign Romelu Lukaku, according to reports in Turkey.

Turkish outlet HT Spor says Fenerbahce are seeking to complete the transfer for a fee below $10m. The Istanbul club is also expected to meet Lukaku’s representatives to discuss the financial terms demanded by the Belgium international.

The player’s salary is likely to be the main obstacle in any agreement. Napoli are reportedly prepared to consider selling Lukaku for about €10m, but his annual wages of €8m could make the deal difficult for any interested club to finalise.

Fenerbahce’s approach comes after a season in which Lukaku’s role at Napoli was significantly reduced. The 33-year-old helped the club win the Italian league title in the 2024-25 season, but injuries limited him to only five league appearances in the following campaign.

Lukaku is no longer regarded as a first-choice member of Napoli’s attacking line-up, particularly with Rasmus Højlund also among the club’s attacking options. His reduced involvement has increased the possibility of a move during the current transfer window.

Napoli are preparing to reshape their squad under Massimiliano Allegri, and Lukaku’s future appears to be part of that process. The Italian club could therefore be willing to sanction his departure if the financial terms meet their expectations.

Fenerbahce must now negotiate both the transfer fee and the player’s personal demands before a deal can be completed. The Turkish club is attempting to secure the move for less than $10m, while Napoli’s reported valuation is close to €10m.

Lukaku’s wages remain the central issue. Even if the two clubs reach an agreement over the fee, Fenerbahce would still need to find a way to meet or restructure his €8m annual salary.

Reports also say Atlanta United are hoping to complete the transfer during the current window. That leaves the future of Lukaku open as Napoli assess their options under Allegri and interested clubs weigh up the cost of signing the experienced striker.

The negotiations with Fenerbahce are at an early stage, with discussions involving the player’s representatives still expected. His contribution to Napoli’s title-winning campaign in 2024-25 contrasts with his limited opportunities in the season that followed, when injuries and competition for places restricted him to five league matches.