Napoli confirmed that striker Romelu Lukaku has suffered a high-grade tear of the rectus femoris muscle in his left thigh, an injury sustained during last week’s 2-1 friendly win over Olympiakos. The 32-year-old Belgian, who scored 14 league goals in last season’s title run, has begun rehabilitation and will consult surgeons, with the club estimating he will be unavailable for at least three months. The champions have moved quickly to plug the gap before their Serie A opener at Sassuolo on Saturday. Club officials held direct talks with Manchester United about taking Denmark forward Rasmus Højlund on loan. People familiar with the discussions said the player has responded positively to Napoli’s long-term project, and United are prepared to finalise terms if agreement on salary coverage is reached. Napoli are also sounding out other options. Contact has been made with Genk regarding Nigeria international Tolu Arokodare, who is valued at €20-25 million after finishing as top scorer in Belgium last season, and French striker Samuel Essende is on a back-up shortlist. Sporting director Mauro Meluso aims to secure a deal before the transfer window closes to ensure manager Antonio Conte has a recognised centre-forward for the club’s domestic and Champions League campaigns.