Manchester United are hunting for a new striker this summer, and Lorenzo Lucca of Udinese has emerged as a prime target. The 24-year-old Italian has caught the eye with his breakout season in Serie A, but United aren’t alone—Napoli are also in the race for his signature. As Ruben Amorim looks to shake up his attack, could Lucca be the answer at Old Trafford? Here’s the latest on this brewing transfer battle.
A Rough Season Sparks United’s Search
It’s no secret that United’s frontline has sputtered in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign. Rasmus Hojlund’s eight goals have left fans wanting more, and his struggles—coupled with just one strike in the last 100 days—have pushed Amorim to act. Dreams of reuniting with Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres fizzled when the Swede opted for a Champions League club in January. Now, with finances tight under INEOS, United are scouring for cost-effective gems—and Lucca’s name is climbing the list.
Lucca’s Rise at Udinese
At 6ft 7in, Lucca isn’t your typical forward. His towering frame belies a surprising turn of pace, and this season, he’s hit 12 goals and two assists in 27 starts for a mid-table Udinese side. That tally’s earned him a call-up to Italy’s national team and a growing reputation as a “very special” talent, as teammate Maduka Okoye puts it. Napoli, flush with cash after Kvaratskhelia’s PSG move, see him as a perfect foil for Romelu Lukaku. But United’s interest could spark a tug-of-war come summer.
A Bargain or a Risk?
Udinese’s asking price sits at €35m—a steal compared to pricier options like Victor Osimhen, whose wages and fee scared United off. Lucca’s raw potential tempts, but at 24, he’s only just hitting his stride. For Amorim, who needs a striker to fit his fluid system, Lucca’s seven passes per game and 65% accuracy raise eyebrows. Joshua Zirkzee’s struggled with finishing too—does United roll the dice on another unpolished gem, or hold out for a proven name?
The Race Heats Up
Napoli might have the edge with their Champions League spot and Serie A title chase, but United’s global pull can’t be ignored. Tuttomercatoweb hints this buzz could be agent-driven to nudge Napoli into action, yet the interest feels real. With United also eyeing Udinese’s Oumar Solet, the Friuli club could be a transfer hotspot this summer. For now, Lucca’s next move hangs in the balance—will it be Manchester or Naples?