Exclusive: Everton Return on the Cards for Romelu Lukaku as Napoli Exit Nears

The European transfer market is heating up as we hit the final stretch of the January 2026 window. 

At the heart of the storm is the Belgian "goal machine," Romelu Lukaku. After an injury struck stint in Italy with Napoli, the 32-year-old striker is reportedly being offered to Premier League clubs by his agents. Looking to regain fitness towards the end of this month, Lukaku is looking for a fresh start in England to reignite his career.

A Romantic Return to Everton?

Latest reports suggest that Lukaku’s representatives have made contact with Everton. 

The Toffees fans still remember him fondly from his prime years at Goodison Park, where he netted 87 goals. Everton manager David Moyes is desperate for a physical "target man" to lead the line and provide a focal point for the attack. 

While negotiations for Fenerbahçe’s Youssef En-Nesyri are dragging on due to valuation gaps, Lukaku has emerged as a top candidate. For the fans, this potential "Return of the King" is the most exciting news of the winter.

The Aston Villa & Tammy Abraham Domino Effect

However, Everton isn't the only option. Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, is playing a high-stakes game as they look to bolster their squad for European competitions. Their primary target remains Beşiktaş striker Tammy Abraham. 

But with the Turkish giants refusing to sell until they find a suitable replacement, the deal has hit a frustrating stalemate.

This is where Lukaku enters the frame as the "perfect Plan B" for Villa. If the Abraham deal collapses by the deadline, Villa is expected to launch an official bid for the Napoli man. This move is being closely watched by Turkish giants Beşiktaş and Fenerbahçe, as Lukaku’s move to the Premier League would trigger a major striker carousel across Europe, affecting multiple clubs.

Injury Concerns and Tactical Fit

The biggest question mark remains Lukaku’s fitness. 

A persistent thigh injury has kept him off the pitch for nearly six months. However, Napoli’s medical team expects him to be back to full fitness by late January. Despite the injury concerns, his tactical profile remains elite; his ability to hold up the ball would be invaluable for David Moyes or Unai Emery. 

To get his heavy wages off the books, the Italian club is willing to accept offers in the region of €15-20 million.

The Verdict: A Deadline Day Thriller

Lukaku’s future depends on a complex "transfer domino." 

If Everton gives up on En-Nesyri, a move back to Merseyside is likely. But if Villa’s pursuit of Abraham fails, the lure of Champions League football could take "Big Rom" to Birmingham. One thing is certain: Lukaku will dominate the headlines until the final hour of the transfer window.