Everton signs striker Romelu Lukaku to five-year contract
Everton has signed striker Romelu Lukaku to a permanent five-year contract, the club announced Wednesday.
Lukaku spent last season at Everton on loan from Chelsea, scoring 16 goals in 33 games. Everton finished fifth in the Premier League last season.
The club will pay a record £28 million ($47.3 million) transfer fee.
Chairman Bill Kenwright, via EvertonFC.com:
"Romelu was a massive part of the jigsaw for Roberto (Martinez) and Everton and nobody is more pleased than me that an 11-month quest ended at lunchtime today, thanks hugely to the efforts of all parties, including Rom, his representative, Chelsea and, of course, Roberto."
Martinez called Lukaku's arrival "more than just a signing," and said it was a "big moment for Everton's history."
Lukaku will wear No. 10 for the club.
This summer, Everton has also signed Gareth Barry and Muhamed Besic. The club also gave contract extensions to Martinez, Ross Barkley and Seamus Coleman.
Lukaku played in four of Belgium's five matches during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Lukaku's best game came in the round of 16, in which as a substitute he had a goal and assist against the United States.
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