Napoli manager Antonio Conte has shared that Romelu Lukaku turned down bids from Premier League clubs last summer, choosing instead to join Napoli in Serie A.
Following an underwhelming spell at Chelsea, Lukaku completed his move to Napoli for €30 million in late August, ending his time in England with 15 goals from 44 games.
Lukaku’s start at Napoli has been promising, as he scored four goals in his first eight matches, aiding Napoli’s seven-point lead at the top of the table.
Conte praised Lukaku’s determination and work ethic, calling him “an excellent guy and a top player” and revealing the striker’s desire to work together again led him to decline offers to remain in the Premier League.
The Belgian forward’s disappointing spell at Chelsea included an initial £100 million transfer in 2021, which saw him score eight goals in his first season before moving back to Serie A on loan.
This marks Lukaku’s second stint back in Italy after a challenging two years at Manchester United, where he scored 28 goals in 66 league games.
Before that, Lukaku had a strong run at Everton, netting 87 goals across four seasons.
Conte reflected on Napoli’s current squad as “one of the best groups” he’s managed, highlighting the unity from staff to players at the training center in Castel Volturno.
He described the atmosphere as one filled with “passion and enthusiasm,” adding that it’s one he embraces wholeheartedly.
Napoli will look to extend their Serie A success with an upcoming home game against Atalanta, currently fifth in the league.