Official: Chelsea sign Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan

Last time we saw Romelu Lukaku in a Chelsea shirt, he was missing the decisive penalty in the 2013 UEFA Super Cup against Bayern Munich.

Eight years, 193 goals, and one scenic flight through Monte Carlo later, the prodigal son returns to fulfill his destiny. Fresh off of winning the Serie A with Inter Milan, Lukaku’s back at Chelsea in a club-record €115m deal, on a five-year contract, and just a day after our victory in the 2021 UEFA Super Cup, even.

Oh what a day!

The 28-year-old world class center forward came close to returning once already, back in 2017, but at the time we baulked at the prospect of having to invest £100m. These days, with prices in the transfer market continuing to inflate despite economic conditions, that’s no longer an issue.

Lukaku and Chelsea’s head coach at the time, Antonio Conte would eventually end up in the same team, both joining Inter Milan two years ago. They certainly lived up to expectations together, with Lukaku setting career highs in goals (64 in 95, all told), developing into an even better player, and also winning the Serie A. We should certainly be expecting similar success at the Bridge under Thomas Tuchel.

“Romelu Lukaku is quite simply one of the world’s best strikers and goalscorers. We are absolutely delighted to be bringing him back to the club he loves, and are excited to be adding his talent to our Champions League-winning squad.

“We are of course looking to build on last season’s success, and Lukaku will play a big role in achieving our targets. I’m sure all Chelsea fans will join me in saying welcome home, Romelu!”

-Marina Granovskaia; source: Chelsea FC

Lukaku will not be available this weekend against Crystal Palace, but should make his debut against Arsenal next weekend.

Welcome back, Romelu! Let’s win some things!