Nottingham Forest have decided not to trigger the option to sign Lorenzo Luka on a permanent basis, according to reliable transfer reporter Nicolò Schira, confirming that his performances this season had long suggested he was imminent.
The Italian striker joined Forest on loan from Napoli in January, with the English club having a purchase option worth €35 million.
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That clause will not be enforced, with Schilla reporting that Forest are not at all happy with the results Luka has achieved since arriving at the City Ground.
It’s hard to argue with that assessment.
LEEDS, UK – FEBRUARY 6: Lorenzo Luca hugs Nottingham Forest’s Igor Jesus during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 6, 2026 in Leeds, England as Omari Hutchinson and Sean Dyche look on. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Luka expected to return to Napoli this summer
The 25-year-old has played just 120 minutes in the Premier League, made just one start, and drew sharp criticism from fans with a brilliant half-time performance against Fenerbahce in the Europa League play-offs.
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His goal on his debut against Leeds briefly raised hopes of turning things around, but it proved to be just an isolated moment during his loan spell.
This news will be of great concern to Napoli.
TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 18: Torino’s Adrian Tamez is challenged by Napoli’s Lorenzo Luca during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SSC Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico on October 18, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Penicino/Getty Images)
The club spent nearly 40 million euros to sign Luka from Udinese, where he impressed with 12 goals in a single season, but he completely failed to establish himself under Antonio Conte.
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His contract runs until 2030, meaning Napoli cannot simply take him away on the cheap, and finding a buyer willing to meet his valuation after two consecutive loan spells failed will be an increasingly difficult task.
Luka will return to Napoli at the end of the season, his market value will be significantly reduced, and his future at the club is also full of uncertainty.