Romelu Lukaku joins Napoli from Chelsea

Napoli have signed Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea, concluding the Belgium striker’s prolonged uncertainty with the Blues.

The Serie A club confirmed the transfer, valued at approximately 30 million euros ($33.2 million), via social media, with owner Aurelio De Laurentiis welcoming Lukaku and sharing a photo of him signing his three-year contract.

Lukaku remains in Italy, joining his third club in three years after loan spells with Inter Milan and Roma.

The 31-year-old previously led Inter to the Serie A title in 2021 under current Napoli coach Antonio Conte before moving to Chelsea for over 100 million euros that summer.

However, his return to Stamford Bridge was disappointing, and the high transfer fee made it challenging for Chelsea to find a buyer.

His loan return to Inter for the 2022/23 season was marred by injury and competition from Edin Dzeko. Attempts to move permanently to Inter faltered last summer due to Lukaku’s reported interest in AC Milan and Juventus, leading to another loan with Roma. However, Roma opted against a permanent deal.

Now, Lukaku joins Napoli, aiming to revive his career under Conte. Despite recent struggles and an underwhelming title defense that saw Napoli finish 10th last season, Lukaku is expected to feature in the squad for Saturday’s home game against Parma, provided he is physically fit.

Napoli’s recent performance has been mixed, with an 11th-place standing in Serie A following a heavy loss to Verona and a strong win against Bologna.

Lukaku’s arrival is part of the club’s effort to rebuild and replace the departing Victor Osimhen, who is reportedly considering a move to Saudi Arabia.