Napoli Transfer Market: Lukaku’s Transfer Is a Done Deal—Here Are the Numbers. Now, a Major Signing Is on the Horizon
Romelu Lukaku’s time with Napoli has come to an end after two years. Following the Belgian striker’s agreement, Fenerbahçe has also reached a deal with the Campania-based club for the player’s transfer to the Super Lig, Turkey’s top division.
Discussions between the two clubs had intensified in recent days to reach an agreement, and a deal has finally been struck, thanks in part to the intervention of President Aurelio De Laurentiis, who personally stepped in to break the deadlock. “Big Rom” is moving to Fenerbahçe for a fee of around 7 million euros, 40% of which will go to Chelsea. Lukaku will earn nearly 10 million euros per season; he leaves Napoli after 45 appearances across all competitions, 15 goals, 11 assists, and a league title won in 2025.
His departure allows Napoli to shed a very hefty salary and thus free up funds for incoming transfers, with the primary focus being on finding a replacement. Among the targets is Gabriel Jesus, who has reportedly already agreed to join the club. The Azzurri are also on the hunt for a defender following injuries to Marianucci and Buongiorno: Chelsea’s Badiashile is reportedly on their list.
Fenerbahçe wasn’t the only option being explored for Lukaku’s future. In recent weeks, MLS clubs Atlanta United and New York City had also come forward, with the American option having met with some openness from the striker, who was coming off an extremely difficult season in Serie A. In the end, however, Lukaku preferred to stay in Europe, choosing the Turkish destination. The Belgian failed to report to the training camp in Castel di Sangro, effectively making the split inevitable.
The top name on the list is therefore Gabriel Jesus, a Brazilian forward born in 1997 who is set to leave Arsenal; his contract with the Gunners expires in 2027. The player, represented in Italy by Branchini, reportedly has no intention of renewing his contract with the London club and would like to leave on a permanent basis.
