Napoli and Romelu Lukaku face uncertain future over salary and role

Napoli's Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku is at the centre of a dispute with the club. The forward, who earns about €11 million gross per year, has rejected proposals to reduce his salary and refuses to accept a backup role behind new signing Rasmus Højlund. Agent Federico Pastorello has said Lukaku will not stay at Napoli if he is only a substitute. Napoli’s management, led by owner Aurelio De Laurentis, is looking to off‑load the player to ease the club’s wage bill, with potential destinations mentioned in Saudi Arabia, MLS and other markets.

At the same time, Napoli has secured a long‑term deal for Uruguayan left‑back Mathías Olivera, extending his contract until 2030, signalling the club’s intention to keep him as a key defensive asset. Additionally, the club has indicated that Dutch winger Noa Lang may be allowed to leave, with a €25 million fee set for a possible transfer.

These developments illustrate Napoli’s broader squad restructuring as it seeks to balance financial sustainability with on‑field competitiveness.