Napoli in race for new striker: Hojlund, Dovbyk, Arokodare eyed | OneFootball

The Azzurri are pursuing several options to fill the spot left vacant by Big Rom, who has decided not to undergo surgery. The Belgian will be out for over three months, and there are three profiles being considered to replace him…

Napoli, race against time for the new striker: Hojlund, Dovbyk, and Arokodare in their sights

With the transfer window nearing its end and Romelu Lukaku’s injury disrupting their plans, Napoli are speeding up their search for a center forward capable of providing immediate answers in both Serie A and the Champions League. Antonio Conte, who needs a strong attacking reference point, is awaiting reinforcements: there are three main names on sporting director Giovanni Manna’s table.

The urgency for a new number 9

The signing of Lorenzo Lucca seemed to have settled the matter, but Lukaku’s long absence has forced a revision of strategies. With ten days left before the summer window closes, Napoli are considering options that combine reliability, experience, and financial compatibility. The track leading to Andrea Pinamonti is currently on the back burner, given the need for a striker with European experience.

Rasmus Hojlund: the opportunity from Manchester United

The most ambitious profile is Rasmus Hojlund. Manchester United are open to a loan (5 million immediately and 45 for the buyout), but the player is demanding guarantees for the future, making any deal without binding obligations complicated. The former Atalanta player was close to Milan, but the Rossoneri’s change of direction towards Boniface could favor Napoli’s move.

Tolu Arokodare: emerging talent from Belgium

The second option is Tolu Arokodare, born in 2004, Genk’s reference striker since January 2023. Last season he recorded 17 goals and 6 assists in 30 appearances, attracting the attention of several European clubs. His valuation is just under 30 million, but the main limitation is his lack of international experience: a potential high-risk investment, but with significant room for growth.

Artem Dovbyk: a hot prospect already in Serie A

Finally, there is Artem Dovbyk, Ukrainian striker born in 1997. Roma, who signed him from Girona for 30 million just a year ago, do not consider him untouchable: in preseason friendlies, Gasperini has often preferred Ferguson, and the Giallorossi need to make sales to balance the books and comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. Dovbyk represents an experienced option, already tested in our league, and could arrive on relatively favorable terms.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.