Romelu Lukaku has claimed he rejected Juventus over the summer to stay at Everton, according to the Mirror.
The Belgian was subject to interest from several club’s across Europe, with Chelsea and Juventus strongly linked.
The Toffees were reluctant to let their star man leave the club, with Ronald Koeman explaining the need to retain the club’s best players as they look to push for European football next year.
With no need to sell under Farhad Moshiri, the club categorically ruled out a transfer for the Belgian, and he was told he would be staying put until at least next year which he duly agreed with.
Now, Lukaku has shown some insight into the summer’s dealings, as well as talking up a potential exit next summer.
I want to win prizes. But when I get into a situation where I can leave but my team will not let me, I’m not one to go absent, get fined and cultivate a negative reputation.
I try to remain calm and treat my club with respect. Hopefully they can treat me also with respect and I can leave through the main gate.
I will not quarrel with Everton.
Otherwise I was going to go to Juventus instead of staying at Everton.
But I opted for Everton and I have not done badly here.
Should Lukaku reach the heights of his ability again this summer, it is almost certain that club’s will look to test Everton’s resolve again next year, with a potential £75million deal enough to prise Romelu from Merseyside.
Everton face Sunderland in their next game, with Middlesborough and Norwich in the EFL Cup shortly after.
