Napoli confirms permanent acquisition of 31-year-old Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku

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Napoli have officially secured the signature of Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea in a deal worth £30m.

Romelu Lukaku’s move to Napoli has been heavily influenced by manager Antonio Conte, who coached him at Inter Milan. Under Conte, Lukaku had two stellar seasons from 2019 to 2021.

Lukaku netted 24 league goals and helped secure the Serie A title for Inter in 2021. His total of 47 goals in 72 Serie A games attracted Chelsea’s attention.

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Despite his success in Italy, Lukaku struggled to find form at Chelsea and was loaned out twice. He returned to Inter on loan and spent last season with AS Roma.

Lukaku hasn’t played for Chelsea since May 2022, and his departure cuts £325,000-a-week from their payroll. Chelsea initially signed him from Inter in 2021 for £97 million.

Now at Napoli, Lukaku ranks second only to Neymar in total transfer fees accumulated. Conte hinted that Lukaku could debut for Napoli in Saturday’s match against Parma.

Last season, Lukaku scored 13 league goals for Roma and added seven more in their Europa League campaign. His consistency in front of goal remains a key asset.

Napoli will be banking on the tactical prowess of Conte and attacking instincts of Lukaku to make an applaudable finish in the Serie A.

Tags: Romelu Lukaku, Napoli, Chelsea, Inter Milan, AS Roma, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnigeria, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcsports, Antonio Conte, Serie A.