AS Roma striker Romelu Lukaku looks back on last summer’s soap opera which resulted in the collapse of his transfer to Inter Milan.
The 30-year-old spent last season on loan with the Nerazzurri. The Italian giants were negotiating with Chelsea over a permanent deal, before discovering that the player and his agent were simultaneously holding talks with arch-rivals Juventus.
The Belgian then refused to answer calls from Inter directors and players. This spelled the end of the club’s attempts to buy him.
Lukaku ultimately joined Roma on loan. He also had his highs and lows this season, but the team is currently enjoying a purple patch since appointing Daniele De Rossi as a replacement for Jose Mourinho.
The Giallorossi put one foot in the Europa League quarter-finals by beating Brighton 4-0 in the first leg of the Round of 16, with Lukaku on target.
The Belgium international spoke to the press in the aftermath. He expressed his desire to remain at Roma while briefly discussing last summer’s transfer saga.
“When I arrived I immediately felt the fans’ love for this magnificent club,” said the former Inter striker in his post-match interview with Sky Sport Italia via FcInterNews.
“Nainggolan had prepared me, explaining how I should behave at Roma. My teammates were very good to me.
“Mourinho also helped me and now De Rossi is doing likewise.
Former Inter Milan Striker Romelu Lukaku Eager To Stay At Roma
“I always try to give my best for Roma because I was in a difficult situation. A lot of people don’t know what my situation was.
“But I’m very grateful to Roma for helping. If I would like to stay for a long time.”
Lukaku has thus far scored 18 goals and provided his teammates with four assists across all competitions this season,