Lukaku swaps Serie A for Turkish Super Lig, joins Fenerbahce
Milan, August 12
Romelu Lukaku has swapped Italy's Serie A for the Turkish Super Lig after Fenerbahce announced the signing of the Belgian striker on Wednesday.
While financial details were not disclosed, Italian media reported that Fenerbahce agreed to a EUR6 million ($6.92 million) transfer fee, plus performance-related bonuses, for the former Chelsea, Manchester United and Inter Milan forward.
"It's an honour and a privilege to be joining your club, to join this club with a wonderful history," the 33-year-old said in a message to the Fenerbahce fans, as per Reuters.
The veteran striker, who helped Napoli win the Serie A title in 2024-25, endured an injury-hit campaign last season, making just seven appearances across all competitions.
Despite his limited club action, Lukaku was still selected in Belgium's squad for the World Cup, where he scored three goals as they reached the quarter-finals.
"I want to thank the coach for the trust and the belief in me as a man, first of all, and also in my qualities as a football player. I'm fit, 100% ready to go," Lukaku added.
"For me, it's also like a little emotional moment because after many years (I'm) going back to Turkey, where I lived as a young kid, where I discovered the professional world as a toddler with my dad," added Lukaku, whose father Roger played for Genclerbirligi.
"It's going to be a special and very emotional moment to be back there. I'm very proud that it is with Fenerbahce."
Fenerbahce finished second in the league last season, losing the title to Galatasaray by three points. They begin the new campaign against Genclerbirligi on Saturday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, this is great for Turkish football. Fenerbahce fans are incredibly passionate, and Lukaku will be treated like royalty there. The emotional connection to his childhood makes this a beautiful move. Good luck to him!
Wait, he's 33 already? Time flies. He was a beast at Inter. But after the injury-hit season, maybe this is the right level for him now. At least he will play regularly, unlike at Napoli. Smart move for the World Cup year.
€6 million for a player of his calibre is a steal. Fenerbahce are getting a proven goal-scorer. The Turkish Super Lig will be more competitive this season, especially with the Galatasaray rivalry. Can't wait to watch those derbies!
As someone who watches European football regularly, I think this is a bit of a downgrade for Lukaku. But he's not getting any younger, and the Turkish league has been growing. Plus, the emotional homecoming angle is nice. Good luck to him.
Lukaku scoring 3 goals in the World Cup despite limited club football shows his class. Indian football needs players with this mentality. Anyway, best wishes to him in Turkey. Fenerbahce is getting a warrior.
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