Napoli have secured the signing of Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea for £30 million.
The move, influenced by Napoli’s manager Antonio Conte, reunites Lukaku with the coach under whom he had a highly successful stint at Inter Milan from 2019 to 2021.
Lukaku, 31, returned to Chelsea in 2021 for a fee of £97.5 million.
However, he spent the last two seasons on loan in Italy – first with Inter Milan and then with Roma.
During his time at Inter, Romelu Lukaku scored 24 league goals and played a key role in their Serie A title win under Conte in 2021.
His impressive form during that period was a significant factor in Chelsea’s decision to sign him.
With Lukaku not featuring for Chelsea since May 2022, his departure helps the club reduce their wage bill by removing his £325,000-a-week salary from their books.
Conte indicated in a pre-match press conference that Lukaku might make his Napoli debut in their upcoming game against Parma on Saturday at 19:45 BST.
Lukaku’s exit follows Chelsea midfielder Tino Anjorin’s transfer to Serie A side Empoli on a three-year deal.
In related news, Chelsea and Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli are both in discussions to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen.
This move would help Napoli balance their financial expenditure following Lukaku’s arrival.
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