Naples demands 35 million for Lucca while Benfica tries to negotiate the price.

Benfica is at a decisive moment in the transfer market, with the search for a new striker intensifying. Lorenzo Lucca from Napoli has emerged as the main option, but the financial demands of the Italians could put a brake on the Eagles’ ambitions. The situation is becoming critical, and Rui Costa, the club president, is facing a real financial puzzle to secure the desired reinforcement.

Napoli, which regards Lucca as a valuable asset, is willing to consider a loan for the 25-year-old forward, but not without conditions. The loan fee demanded is two million euros, which already poses a challenge for Benfica’s finances. Furthermore, the Italian club is insisting on a buy option of a staggering 35 million euros, a figure that, according to sources close to the matter, is well above the budget Rui Costa has in mind.

Rui Costa’s statements reflect concerns about the financial viability of the deal: “The priority is to strengthen the wings, but Lucca is an option that would require a significant effort from the SAD. Napoli’s demands are clearly beyond our reach, and we would only proceed if there is a substantial reduction in price.” The executive is aware that other acquisitions, such as those of André Luiz and Wesley, also come with high price tags, further complicating the situation.

Lorenzo Lucca, a giant standing at 2.01 meters, has not only attracted Benfica’s attention due to his height and playing characteristics but also because of his ability to be a lethal weapon in attack. However, the fact that Lucca is on loan with a mandatory purchase clause of 26 million euros, in addition to the loan cost, complicates the scenario even further for the Eagles. The math does not seem favorable, and Rui Costa is already beginning to explore more viable alternatives as the pressure for results and reinforcements increases.

Lucca’s future at Benfica is uncertain, but the transfer market saga continues, and the Luz club cannot afford to waste time. With the clock ticking, will Rui Costa be able to find a solution that satisfies both Napoli and Benfica’s financial limitations? The coming weeks promise to be intense and full of twists and turns.