“A huge mistake” – Ex-Real Madrid man slams Napoli’s decision to snub Lookman for Okafor

Former Real Madrid forward Antonio Cassano has criticised Napoli’s decision to sign AC Milan’s Noah Okafor on loan instead of making a move for Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman as a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Soccernet.ng reports.

Napoli parted ways with Kvaratskhelia early in the winter transfer window, selling the Georgian star to Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth around €75 million.

The departure left a significant void in Antonio Conte’s squad as the Serie A giants aimed to keep pace in the title race.

Conte made it clear that he wanted a high-quality replacement, and Napoli were linked with several attacking options, including Lookman and Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho. However, they opted for Okafor, a decision that Cassano believes was a major misstep.

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Speaking to Viva El Futbol via IlNapoli, Cassano backed Conte’s frustration over Napoli’s approach in the market.

“I agree with what Conte said: either someone arrives who makes the difference, or it’s better to stay as is,” Cassano noted. I don’t know what Napoli’s philosophy is now, but I’m convinced that the coach has an idea: with a player of a certain level, you win the championship.”

Cassano also highlighted Conte’s growing dissatisfaction, pointing out that the coach was already showing signs of frustration in the weeks leading up to the window’s closure.

“Already in a press conference a few days ago, Conte was irritated because no one had been signed, and he’s right. In February, no one imagined that Napoli would be first, without conceding too many games, and what do you do? You take €75 million from Kvara and buy Okafor on loan. For me, it was the wrong strategy.”

The former Italy international argued that Napoli should have activated Lookman’s €55 million release clause, even suggesting that they could have used Giacomo Raspadori in a swap deal to secure the Nigerian forward.

Cassano continued: “So I say… you took 75 million, Lookman’s release clause (even if he’s injured now) is 55 million… you give them Raspadori and you take a ready player who makes the difference, knows Serie A, and Inter should be afraid.

“A huge mistake not to take a high-level player to replace Kvara. In my opinion, the club thought that arriving in the top four was a miracle and next year you can spend a nest egg. Conte will be poisoned.”

Lookman, who has been a standout performer for Atalanta, is currently sidelined with a knee injury. However, the Super Eagles star is expected to return to action in late February, where he could play a key role in Atalanta’s push for a strong finish to the season.