Napoli’s Romelu Lukaku Suffers Serious Thigh Injury, Expected To Miss Several Weeks

‎Napoli have confirmed that Romelu Lukaku has sustained a serious thigh injury that could require surgery.

‎The Belgian striker suffered the setback during last Thursday’s 2-1 friendly win over Olympiakos Piraeus. Reports suggest the former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Inter Milan forward may be sidelined for several weeks.

‎Tests revealed that the 32-year-old, who scored 14 goals as Napoli won Serie A last season, has “a high-grade injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his left thigh,” the club said.

‎“Following the injury he suffered during the match against Olympiacos, Romelu Lukaku underwent medical examinations at the Pineta Grande Hospital, which revealed a high-grade injury to the rectus femoris in his left thigh,” Napoli’s statement read.

‎“The Azzurri player has already begun the rehabilitation process and will receive surgical advice,” it concluded.

‎Initial reports suggest that the Belgian could be ruled out of action until November as a result of his injury.

‎Reports on Monday indicated that Napoli may need to re-enter the transfer market for a striker to provide competition for summer signing Lorenzo Lucca.

‎According to Corriere dello Sport, potential targets include Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee, Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta, Roma’s Artem Dovbyk, and Lecce’s Nicola Kristovic.

‎Napoli will kick off their title defence with an away clash against Sassuolo on Saturday.