Romelu Lukaku is making a comeback to Italy following Chelsea’s agreement with AS Roma for a season-long loan deal.
The Belgian captain and all-time leading scorer will once again feature in Serie A, marking his second consecutive season in the league after his loan tenure with Inter Milan in the previous term.
“Lukaku has completed a season-long loan move to Serie A club AS Roma,” read a statement from Chelsea.
“The Belgium international, who joined Chelsea in the summer of 2021, spent the previous campaign on loan at Inter Milan.
“Lukaku will link up in the Italian capital with former Chelsea head coach Jose Mourinho, who guided Roma to the Europa League final last season.”
Lukaku scored 14 goals in 37 appearances last season in Italy as he helped Inter reach the Champions League final, where they were narrowly defeated by Manchester City.
On his return to London, the Belgian was not included in new Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino’s plans, despite the long-term injury suffered by the Blues’ star attacking signing, Christopher Nkunku.
This marks the second time that Jose Mourinho has signed Lukaku, having previously done so with Manchester United in 2017.
Speaking to The Times last year, Mourinho explained that he knows how to get the best out of him.
He said: “At Inter he became the top man.
“He became loved – a big love from the supporters, love from teammates, great relations with the coach. He’s a big guy, physically so strong, but there is also a kid inside who needs that love, needs that support, needs to feel important.”
Roma will mark Lukaku’s seventh club on his football journey. He initiated his career as a young player with Anderlecht before making the move to Chelsea.
Subsequently, he underwent loan periods at West Brom and Everton, with the latter transition eventually becoming a permanent transfer. Following this, he embarked on a significant £90 million transfer to Manchester United.
While he had an impressive initial season, Lukaku’s popularity waned, leading to his departure. In 2019, he was transferred to Inter Milan for €80 million (£74 million). In Italy, he thrived, but due to financial turmoil at Inter, he was once again sold, this time back to his former club Chelsea in 2021.
Lukaku’s career has seen him netting more than 350 goals, a notable feat that includes a record 75 goals for Belgium.
However, he has grappled with challenges related to fitness and form in recent times.