Nottingham Forest sign 6ft 7in Napoli strike Lucca

Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of Napoli forward Lorenzo Lucca on a loan deal running until the end of the season, with the agreement also containing an option to make the move permanent in the summer.

Lucca only arrived at Napoli last July after joining from Udinese on a loan arrangement that included an obligation to buy, but his opportunities have been limited under Antonio Conte. Despite scoring 14 goals for Udinese last season, the Italy international has struggled to establish himself with the reigning Serie A champions.

The 25-year-old has found the net once in 16 league appearances this campaign, starting only four of those matches, and has also scored in the Coppa Italia.

Forest head coach Sean Dyche has been keen to add a striker to his squad, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the return of Chris Wood, who underwent knee surgery in December after finishing last season as the club’s top scorer with 20 goals.

Forest’s global head of football Edu believes Lucca’s physical profile and experience can add a new dimension to the squad. Standing at 6ft 7in, the striker has previously played for Palermo and Pisa, as well as spending time on loan at Ajax.

“Having played at the top level in different countries, he brings specific qualities to our team,” Edu said. “He arrives with a strong mix of experience and potential, and we are excited to see the impact he can make for the remainder of the season.”

Forest are also exploring further defensive reinforcements and have shown interest in Napoli left-back Mathias Olivera as they review their options in that position. Wolves forward Jorgen Strand Larsen has also been monitored during the window, with the Norway international understood to be available for around £40m.

Currently sitting 17th in the Premier League, Forest are five points clear of the relegation zone as they look to strengthen ahead of the run-in.