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Romelu Lukaku, the Chelsea striker, is set to join AS Roma on a season-long loan deal, according to reports.
The Belgian striker was not included in Chelsea's roster this season and was not even assigned a number. Roma has consented to pay a loan fee that is about £5 million and will cover Lukaku's wages, which are estimated to be approximately £7.5 million for ten months. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="670"]
Romelu Lukaku set to join AS Roma. | Source: Google[/caption]
Lukaku will fly to Rome on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, in order to finalize the transfer before the European transfer deadline.
On September 1st, Roma will face AC Milan, a strong adversary, and the Belgian striker is likely to make his debut that day.
Last year, Lukaku was on loan at Inter Milan, where he played in 25 games and scored 10 goals. The transfer to AS Roma follows Lukaku's difficult time at Chelsea. In August of 2021, he returned to Chelsea for a then-record £97.5 million, however he did not live up to expectations in his second stint with Mauricio Pochettino's side. In 26 Premier League games last year, he only managed eight goals.
Federico Pastorello, Lukaku's agent, announced the transfer to AS Roma on Monday. As he put it:
"We are happy to announce that Romelu Lukaku will be joining AS Roma on loan."
"Romelu is excited to start this new chapter in his career and he is determined to help Roma achieve their goals."
Lukaku's arrival is a major coup for Roma. The club is looking to challenge for the Serie A title this season, and the striker will be a key player in their quest.
Lukaku's Relationship with Mourinho
Romelu is set to rejoin with Jose Mourinho, who coached him throughout his time at Chelsea and Manchester United. The player has recorded 33 goals and 11 assists in 76 total appearances while playing under Jose Mourinho. With this being their third meeting, it's evident that Mourinho has a soft spot for the Belgian striker. In his first stint at Stamford Bridge, Romelu spent a limited period of time with Chelsea. And while Mourinho was Manchester United manager, he made a move to bring the player over from Everton. [caption id="attachment_8839" align="aligncenter" width="588"]
Romelu Lukaku reunites with former manager, Jose Mourinho. | Credit: @B/RFootball. | Source: Twitter[/caption]
The 30-year-old striker is a proven goal-scorer, giving Roma's offense some much-needed spark. His aerial prowess is an additional strength that will serve the team well.
