Romelu Lukaku Transfers to Napoli in £30 Million Deal

Romelu Lukaku has joined Napoli from Chelsea in a £30 million deal. Napoli’s manager, Antonio Conte, who previously managed Lukaku during successful seasons at Inter Milan from 2019 to 2021, drove this transfer. Lukaku, now 31, rejoined Chelsea in 2021 for £97.5 million but spent the last two seasons on loan, first at Inter and then with Roma.

During his stint at Inter, Lukaku scored 24 league goals and helped win Serie A under Conte prompting Chelsea to buy him. The move to Napoli allows Chelsea to offload Lukaku’s substantial £325,000-a-week wages as he has not played for the club since May 2022. Conte has indicated that Lukaku might make his Napoli debut in their upcoming match against Parma.

Alongside Lukaku’s departure, Chelsea midfielder Tino Anjorin is also moving to Italy, joining Empoli on a three-year contract. Chelsea and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli are reportedly in talks to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen which could help Napoli manage their budget following Lukaku’s signing. Lukaku’s tenure at Chelsea has disappointed.

Despite the high expectations from his £100 million transfer, his time at Stamford Bridge suffered due to an unsanctioned interview where he expressed dissatisfaction with the club’s system and his role. The tensions led to a decline in form and fan support, contributing to his eventual loan moves and now, a final departure to Napoli.

Chelsea recouped £15 million in loan fees and the £30 million transfer fee but they widely view Romelu Lukaku’s stint at Chelsea as a costly misstep.