Belgian center-forward Romelu Lukaku is relishing the opportunity to line up alongside international compatriot Kevin De Bruyne at Napoli after the six-time Premier League winner’s transfer from Manchester to Naples this summer.
De Bruyne joined Napoli on a free transfer from Manchester City after his contract expired, bringing an illustrious 10-year spell at the Etihad to a close.
The 34-year-old won 16 trophies with City, including six Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, two FA Cups, and five EFL Cups. He racked up 422 appearances in all competitions, scoring 108 goals and providing 170 assists.
The midfielder is no stranger to Lukaku, having played alongside him 79 times for Belgium, with De Bruyne assisting the striker for 16 goals during that period.
Lukaku admitted it didn’t take much persuasion to convince his compatriot to make the move to Naples and believes the midfielder’s arrival could be a game-changer for the club.
“I didn’t have to give him any advice or convince him of anything. De Bruyne is a very down-to-earth guy, he’s all about family,” Lukaku told Sky Sport Italia.
“I asked him to just be a protagonist at Napoli the same way he was at Manchester City and for Belgium. I am very happy he is here, but it was his decision to come here.”
De Bruyne is one of seven new arrivals in Naples ahead of the new season, with Bologna’s Sam Beukema the latest addition to Antonio Conte’s squad. The Partenopei have also secured Lorenzo Lucca from Udinese, bringing in the 24-year-old on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy for €26 million.
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