Napoli Reveals Interest in Man Utd's Lukaku
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis revealed he has discussed the possibility of signing Romelu Lukaku, but put talk of a bid being made down to a ploy to drive up the Manchester United striker's valuation.
The Belgium international appears to be on his way out of Old Trafford in the closing stages of the transfer window after losing his place to Marcus Rashford in the second half of last season.
Lukaku, not used in any of United's six pre-season friendlies, has previously talked up a "dream" move to Serie A and is wanted by Inter and Italian champions Juventus.
De Laurentiis confirmed he has talked with Lukaku's agent, but Napoli have not tabled an offer for his services.
"You know why there are rumours about him? Because I am good friends with his agent, Federico Pastorello, who I often wake up at dawn for a chat," he told Sky Sport Italia.
"I asked him: 'Do you think Lukaku would suit Napoli? Is he going to Juventus or not?' We spoke in those terms, but then we know it’s in the interest of agents to make it seem as if we made an offer, as that raises the price tag for someone else.
"This is why I’d prefer it if the transfer market opened the day after the season ended and closed at the end of July."