Soccer-Lukaku leaves Chelsea to join Everton in $47m deal

Reuters

LONDON, July 30 (Reuters) - Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku has completed a 28 million pounds ($47.3m) move from Chelsea to Premier League rivals Everton, the Goodison Park club said on Wednesday. The transfer fee is a club record for Everton, and Lukaku has signed a five-year deal. The 21-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell at Everton last season, scoring 16 goals in 33 appearances. "I am really excited about rejoining Everton," Lukaku told Everton's website (www.evertonfc.com). "I had a fantastic experience last season and a great relationship with the manager, the chairman, the staff, the players and the fans. I can't wait to get started again and I'm looking forward to a successful season." Lukaku, who joined Chelsea from Anderlecht for 18 million pounds in 2011, helped Everton finish fifth last season and qualify for the Europa League. (Writing by Stephen Wood, editing by Rex Gowar)