Padovan pushes Lukaku toward MLS or Arabia, Buongiorno sidelined

Giancarlo Padovan, speaking on Radio Napoli Centrale’s Un Calcio alla Radio, said Romelu Lukaku could end up in the MLS or in Saudi Arabia, ruling out a return to Italy or Europe, and warned that Napoli would not let him leave cheaply. He added that Buongiorno would not see the field if Gatti arrives.

Padovan explained that Lukaku, at his age, commands a high wage and would need a substantial compensation package for Napoli to release him. He suggested the United States as a feasible destination, describing MLS as a possible solution. He also mentioned Saudi Arabia, saying its clubs “cover gold” for players.

Regarding potential signings, Padovan said Gatti is not a champion or a superstar but a reliable player with strength and stamina. He expressed agreement with Allegri’s interest in Gatti and said Spalletti has placed the defender on his transfer list. Padovan recalled that Antonio Conte once wanted Lucca, describing it as a club asset, and noted that Napoli does not recruit left‑footed players because Gatti is right‑footed.

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He recalled an on‑field clash between Osimhen and a Galatasaray player that ended with a brotherly embrace, calling it “football”.

Padovan remained skeptical that Buongiorno will return to his previous level, describing his recent form as modest despite past injuries. He concluded that Napoli will need another striker, as the current options do not meet the club’s ambitions.

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The interview transcript appears on Google Discover under the heading Fonti preferite, labelled Stampa A‑ A+. The page code includes the term A− as part of its styling. The phrase “Se arriva questo difensore” opens Padovan’s comments, highlighting the conditional nature of the discussion.