Benfica push for struggling Napoli striker Lucca

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Sam Wilson | Last updated Jan 12, 2026 8:06 AM ET

Benfica are stepping up their efforts to sign Napoli striker Lorenzo Lucca, with fresh talks expected between the two clubs as negotiations reopen.

According to reports from Portugal, via TuttoMercatoWeb, new contact has been established as Benfica look to revive a deal that has stalled over financial terms.

Head coach José Mourinho is said to be a key driving force behind the move, having identified Lucca as an ideal profile to strengthen his attacking options.

LISBON, PORTUGAL – NOVEMBER 05: Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between SL Benfica and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at on November 05, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

Napoli set steep price tag for Benfica target Lucca

Napoli’s position, however, remains firm. The Serie A side are currently demanding €2m for a loan deal, alongside an option to buy set at €35m.

Those figures are viewed as excessive by Benfica, who are pushing to renegotiate the structure in order to make the operation more financially viable.

TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 18: Adrien Tameze of Torino is challenged by Lorenzo Lucca of Napoli during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 18, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Lucca has struggled to make a consistent impact since joining Napoli, and the club are open to evaluating solutions that would allow the striker to reset elsewhere.

Benfica believe there could be room for compromise, particularly if Napoli are willing to revisit the overall valuation or adjust the conditions attached to a permanent move.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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