Italian international forward Lorenzo Lucca, aged 24, has officially joined SSC Napoli on a season-long loan from Udinese, with an obligation to buy at the end of the period. The move was confirmed by both Serie A clubs on July 18, 2025, capping off one of the most closely watched transfer sagas of the summer.
The loan fee is reportedly €9 million, while the subsequent compulsory purchase option is set at €26 million, plus add-ons—bringing the total potential transfer value to around €35 million (€40 million including bonuses).
Rise of a Towering Striker
Lucca’s journey from youth ranks to top-flight recognition is defined by his size, technique, and adaptation. Standing at roughly 2.01 meters (6 ft 7 in), the Italian centre-forward earned the moniker “Tower of Pisa” for his physical presence. Despite the lofty frame, Lucca has showcased surprising mobility and technical finesse, attributes that have drawn comparisons to Olivier Giroud and Zlatan Ibrahimović.
After emerging through youth systems at Pisa and Torino, Lucca spent a season at Ajax before settling into form at Udinese, where he netted 14 goals and provided two assists in all competitions during the 2024–25 season. His consistency and aerial dominance made him a focal point in set-piece situations and central build‑up play.
Napoli’s Strategic Investment
Napoli had been tracking Lucca all summer, initially scouting other forwards such as Darwin Núñez, but ultimately shifted focus when Nunez’s price tag became prohibitive. The move for Lucca aligns with Napoli manager Antonio Conte’s tactical blueprint, offering the club both a long-term starter and a valuable alternative to Romelu Lukaku in key fixtures.
Contenders like Inter, AC Milan, Atalanta, and even Atlético Madrid are known to have monitored Lucca’s progress, highlighting the competitive environment Napoli prevailed in to secure the deal. AC Milan reportedly offered a swap deal involving Lorenzo Colombo, which ultimately failed as valuations diverged, clearing the path for Napoli.
What Lucca Brings to Naples
A versatile attacking option, Lucca brings:
- Aerial supremacy and physicality: Ideal for holding up play or attacking crosses and set pieces.
- Improved link-up play: Though not exceptionally quick, he offers intelligent movement and combination play with wingers and midfield runners.
- Tactical adaptability: A reliable secondary striker in Conte’s system, capable of complementing faster forwards like Kvaratskhelia and Osimhen with his target-man traits.
Napoli’s bold move reflects not just confidence in Lucca’s potential, but also a broader ambition to deepen the squad while staying competitive across domestic and European competitions.
What Comes Next
Lorenzo Lucca is expected to undergo a medical shortly and formally integrate into the squad ahead of Napoli’s preseason preparations. With a contract reportedly running until 2030, he joins as both a strategic reinforcement and part of Napoli’s longer-term blueprint under Conte.
Fans in Naples will be watching closely. Can Lucca adapt quickly? Will he thrive as a regular starter—or emerge as a reliable impact sub? Either way, his arrival marks a significant transition point for both the player and the club seeking sustained success.
Summary:
- Lorenzo Lucca joins Napoli on loan from Udinese with an obligation to buy.
- Deal structured as €9 m loan + €26 m obligatory purchase fee, totalling ~€35 m (plus bonuses).
- Lucca’s 6′7″ frame, aerial presence, and evolving technical game fit Antonio Conte’s tactics.
- Napoli beat other Serie A and European suitors to lock down the striker.
- Deal underscores Napoli’s ambition to reinforce and compete deeper in domestic and European campaigns.
