See Why Lukaku Rejected Italian Giants Juventus Just To Remain In Money Spending Premier League

Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has claimed he rejected the chance to join Juventus.

The Belgium international asked to leave Everton at the end of last season but the transfer window closed with Lukaku still at Goodison Park.

Speaking to Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad, Lukaku said it was not the right time to move to the defending Serie A champions.

“It stings a little [not being in European competition], but I’m someone who believes that everything happens for a reason,” the 23-year-old said.

“Otherwise I would have gone to Juventus instead of staying at Everton. But I opted for Everton because it was too early for Italy and I have not done badly here.”

SKY