Fenerbahçe close in on Romelu Lukaku as transfer window nears end

Fenerbahçe are closing in on the signing of Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku after reaching an agreement with Napoli on the transfer and personal terms with the 33-year-old forward.

Lukaku is expected to travel to Istanbul to complete his medical examination before signing a two-year contract with the Turkish club, according to reports in Türkiye and Italy.

Reports on Wednesday indicated that only Lukaku’s signature remained before the transfer could be completed.

The Belgian striker is expected to arrive in Istanbul on Wednesday or Thursday to undergo medical checks and then sign the official contract.

Fenerbahçe have reportedly agreed to pay Napoli an initial fee of slightly more than 6 million euros, with the package potentially rising by several million euros through performance-related bonuses and other incentives.

Transfer reports from Italy and Türkiye have also indicated that Lukaku has agreed to personal terms, with his annual earnings expected to be in the range of 8 million to 10 million euros, depending on how bonuses and other elements of the deal are calculated.

The move would bring an end to Lukaku’s two-year spell at Napoli. He joined the Italian club permanently from Chelsea in 2024 for a reported fee of about 30 million euros and helped Napoli win the Serie A title in the 2024-25 season.

His second season in Naples was far less productive, however, with recurring muscle and thigh problems limiting his appearances and affecting his contribution.

For Fenerbahçe, the deal represents a major addition to an attack already being built around high-profile players and ambitions of competing on multiple fronts.

Lukaku brings a physical presence that few forwards in the Süper Lig can match. At 1.91 meters, he offers strength, aerial ability, hold-up play and a proven scoring record, while his experience in the Premier League, Serie A and European competitions could prove valuable as Fenerbahçe pursue success at home and in Europe.

The Belgium international remains his country’s all-time leading scorer, with 93 goals in 132 appearances as of mid-2026. His club career has included spells at Anderlecht, Chelsea, West Bromwich Albion, Everton, Manchester United, Inter Milan, Roma and Napoli.

His most successful period came at Inter, where he played a central role in the club’s Serie A title-winning campaign in 2020-21. He has also enjoyed prolific spells in England, particularly during his time at Everton.

Lukaku’s arrival would give Fenerbahçe another experienced option in a demanding season that includes the Süper Lig and European competition. The club are also pursuing Champions League qualification after advancing past Sturm Graz and moving into the playoff round against Lyon.

Fenerbahçe are scheduled to face Lyon in the playoff round, with the first leg in Istanbul later this month. Qualification for the Champions League league phase could have further implications for the club’s transfer plans.

The Yellow Canaries are also reportedly set to pursue a high-profile left winger if they qualify for the Champions League, suggesting the club’s transfer business may not end with Lukaku.

DAILYSABAH