Roma Faces £37m Fee to Secure Lukaku from Chelsea

Romelu Lukaku's sensational loan spell at AS Roma has ignited discussions about a permanent move from Chelsea. While the Belgian striker has made a remarkable start to his career in the Serie 'A', scoring seven goals in eight appearances, Chelsea has set a price tag of £37 million for his services next summer. This fee comes as part of the deal when Lukaku was loaned to Roma from Stamford Bridge.

A Spectacular Start with Roma: Since joining AS Roma on loan from Chelsea during the summer transfer window, Romelu Lukaku has been in scintillating form. The 30-year-old striker has notched up seven goals in just eight appearances in all competitions, instantly becoming a fan favorite in the Italian capital.

Chelsea's Exit Fee: To secure Lukaku on a permanent basis, AS Roma must be prepared to pay Chelsea a substantial sum of £37 million next summer. This release clause was inserted into Lukaku's contract when he made the loan switch to Roma for £5 million.

Initially, Chelsea had plans to sell Lukaku during the summer transfer window. However, Lukaku's refusal to move to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, disruptions to a potential switch to Inter Milan, and his decision not to join Juventus led to a change in the club's plans.

Roma's Competition: While the £37 million release clause may seem like a reasonable fee for Lukaku's services, Roma could still face competition for his signature. Despite this clause, other clubs might be interested in securing the striker, who came at a price more than £60 million higher when Chelsea acquired him two years ago.

AS Roma has shown signs of improvement this season, winning their last three matches in all competitions. Much of this upturn in form has been attributed to Lukaku's goal-scoring prowess.

Lukaku's Chelsea Stint: Romelu Lukaku returned to Chelsea in a £98 million transfer from Inter Milan two years ago with high expectations. However, he struggled to meet those expectations and spent significant time on the bench. His relationship with Chelsea soured further when he expressed his dissatisfaction in an interview that the club deemed disrespectful.

Lukaku has quickly won the hearts of Roma supporters, who welcomed him at the airport with immense enthusiasm when he arrived in the Italian capital. The Belgian has also spoken fondly of his "special" relationship with AS Roma manager Jose Mourinho.

SportsLigue