Nottingham Forest is on the verge of finalizing a loan deal with Napoli for striker Lorenzo Lucca. The agreement includes personal terms that are nearing completion alongside an option to purchase Lucca for around €40 million, the amount Napoli paid Udinese for him.
Player Background
Lorenzo Lucca, 25, has been loaned to Napoli since last summer and has featured in 16 Serie A matches this season, scoring only once. His game time has been limited, with just four starts this campaign. This deal comes as Nottingham Forest seeks to bolster its attacking options after injuries have sidelined key players.
Current Situation of Nottingham Forest
Forest is currently battling relegation in 17th place, just one position above the drop zone. They have scored nine goals less than Leeds United, who sit in 16th place. Last season’s top scorer, Chris Wood, is out with a knee injury, prompting the club to search for new strikers.
- Current League Position: 17th in Premier League
- Goals Scored: Nine goals fewer than 16th-placed Leeds United
- Injured Player: Chris Wood (knee injury)
Transfer Market Activity
This window, Forest has considered multiple forwards. Reports indicate that Iranian international Mehdi Taremi is a priority target, with Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Jorgen Strand Larsen also under review. Interestingly, the proposed transfer for Lucca will not impact their pursuit of Taremi, as the club believes Taremi’s style resembles that of Wood.
Earlier this month, Forest loaned Arnaud Kalimuendo, a £26 million ($35 million) signing from Rennes, to Frankfurt. Kalimuendo has started strong in the Bundesliga with one goal and one assist in three matches.
Lucca’s Tenure at Napoli
Lucca initially joined Napoli on a season-long loan from Udinese last summer, one of nine new players acquired. Coach Antonio Conte faced challenges in integrating these signings and acknowledged the need to enhance team chemistry following a previous successful season. As of now, Napoli holds the third position in the league after 21 games.
In conclusion, as Nottingham Forest aims to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window, the potential acquisition of Lorenzo Lucca may be a pivotal move amidst their ongoing challenges in the Premier League.
