Romelu Lukaku

Belgian footballer (born 1993)

Romelu Lukaku Bolingoli, a prolific striker born in Antwerp in 1993, holds the title of Belgium's all-time top goalscorer. With 93 international goals, he ranks second among European men in history. His career spans major European leagues, including consistent success in Italy, England, and Turkey, establishing him as a primary figure in modern international association football.

Early Career and Anderlecht

Lukaku began his football education at five years old with local side Rupel Boom before joining Lierse. He moved to Anderlecht in 2006, where he signed a professional contract in 2009. His senior debut occurred on 24 May 2009 against Standard Liège. During the 2009–10 season, he finished as the Belgian Pro League's top scorer with 15 goals, helping Anderlecht secure their 30th league title.

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Premier League Development

In August 2011, Chelsea signed Lukaku for an initial fee of approximately €12 million. Following a season of limited appearances, he moved to West Bromwich Albion on loan for the 2012–13 campaign. He finished that season as the sixth-highest Premier League goalscorer with 17 goals. He later enjoyed spells at Everton, where he was named to the 2016–17 PFA Team of the Year, and Manchester United, where he recorded his 100th Premier League goal.

Italian Success and Recent Years

Lukaku joined Inter Milan in 2019, where he was named the Europa League Player of the Season during his debut year. He led the club to their first Serie A title in 11 years in 2021, earning the league's Most Valuable Player and Footballer of the Year awards. After a return to Chelsea in a record £97.5 million deal, he returned to Italy for stints at Inter and Roma. In 2024, he moved to Napoli, where he helped secure the 2024–25 Serie A title.

International Representation

Since his 2010 senior debut, Lukaku has represented Belgium at seven major tournaments, including four FIFA World Cups and three UEFA European Championships. He played a central role in Belgium’s third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup, earning the Bronze Boot for his scoring performance. He was also selected for the 2020 European Championship Team of the Tournament.

Fast facts

Questions readers ask

How many goals has Romelu Lukaku scored for Belgium?

He is the all-time top goalscorer for Belgium and has recorded 93 international goals.

Which clubs has Romelu Lukaku played for?

His career includes spells at Anderlecht, Chelsea, West Bromwich Albion, Everton, Manchester United, Inter Milan, Roma, Napoli, and Fenerbahçe.

Achievements

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