Napoli close to completing a major deal

Napoli have once again prioritized Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund as their top priority in the current summer transfer window. This follows a sudden shift in their attacking plans in recent days, particularly following confirmed reports that Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku will be out for three to four months with a serious thigh injury. According to Football Italia, Napoli's management has identified Hojlund, the Manchester United player, as their first choice to bolster their attack, especially after AC Milan shifted their interest to sign Nigerian striker Victor Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen, which opened the way for the southern club to make a strong move in the deal. The report revealed that the Italian club has intensified negotiations with Manchester United, as well as with the player's representatives, in an attempt to reach a final agreement. Napoli's management is working to convince the English side to agree to a loan deal that includes the Danish player, without an obligation to buy, with a financial formula that suits all parties involved. Despite Napoli having other options, such as Sassuolo striker Andrea Pinamonti, Hojlund remains the top target for Italian coach Antonio Conte, who sees the young striker as the best possible replacement for Lukaku and to bolster his attacking line for the new season. Napoli's participation in the Champions League gives him an additional advantage in negotiations, as the club hopes to convince the player of the sporting project presented to him, especially since he may get more opportunities to play in the starting lineup and improve his performance, having endured a difficult period with the Red Devils since his transfer from Atalanta in August 2023 in a deal worth €80 million plus incentives.