Transfer Centre

Jose Mourinho makes "100%" claim over Romelu Lukaku transfer rumours

By Ben Sully | 03 June 2024

Newly-appointed Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho rules out a reunion with his former Manchester United and Roma striker Romelu Lukaku.

Newly-appointed Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho has played down rumours that he wants to sign Romelu Lukaku this summer.

On Sunday, Mourinho was unveiled as Fenerbahce's new manager, representing his first managerial role since being sacked by Roma in January.

Mourinho has signed a two-year contract to take over a side that missed out on the 2023-24 Turkish Super Lig title despite losing just one of their 38 league matches.

The former Chelsea boss is tasked with leading the Yellow Canaries to Turkish Super Lig glory for the first time since 2013-14.

Mourinho will be able to call upon a number of recognisable names, including Fred, Dusan Tadic and Edin Dzeko.

New Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho reacts during the presentation on June 2, 2024 © Reuters

Mourinho quashes Lukaku rumours

However, with Mourinho likely to stamp his own mark on the squad, there has been speculation linking him with a potential move for Lukaku.

After working with the forward at Man United, Mourinho brought Lukaku to Roma on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.

The Fenerbahce boss has now ruled out the prospect of another reunion with the Belgian when asked whether he could sign Lukaku and Roma playmaker Paulo Dybala this summer.

Mourinho told reporters: "Names of my previous players of my previous clubs. I want to make it 100% my word, I have zero interest in any player of AS Roma."

Roma's Romelu Lukaku celebrates scoring their first goal on December 14, 2023 © Reuters

What next for Lukaku?

While a move to Fenerbahce appears to be off the table, Lukaku is still expected to leave Stamford Bridge again this summer.

Having spent the last two seasons on loan at Inter Milan and Roma, the Belgium international will be keen to find a new permanent home.

However, it remains to be seen whether any potential suitors will be willing to meet Chelsea's reported £38m asking price.

Napoli have been one of the clubs mooted as a possible destination, with Lukaku's former manager Antonio Conte set to take over the reins at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

The Italian giants will be in the market for a new striker if Nigeria international Victor Osimhen is sold in the summer transfer window.