Napoli, the reigning Italian champions, are reportedly considering a surprise move for free agent Jamie Vardy as they seek attacking reinforcements following a serious injury to Romelu Lukaku. The 38-year-old former Leicester City striker has been without a club since leaving the Foxes at the end of the 2024-25 season.
Vardy, who scored 200 goals in 500 appearances for Leicester, has been linked with several clubs including Everton, Celtic and Rangers. However, Napoli are now weighing up a shock approach after learning that Lukaku could be sidelined for up to three months with a thigh injury.
The fact that Vardy is available on a free transfer makes him an attractive option for Napoli boss Antonio Conte. The Italian giants also have other targets such as Manchester United's Rasmus Hojlund and Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson, but may struggle to finance those deals. A move to Serie A was reportedly close earlier this summer before Genoa manager Patrick Vieira vetoed the transfer.
Vardy has made it clear he wants to continue playing at an elite level, and his wife Rebekah recently fuelled speculation of a move to Inter Miami by sharing a photo of their children in the club's kits, though those claims have since been dismissed. Napoli's interest could offer Vardy a route back to top-flight football.
