Pastorello Opens Up on Lukaku’s Missed Move to Madrid
Romelu Lukaku’s agent, Federico Pastorello, has made a surprising revelation about the Belgian striker’s career path — and how Carlo Ancelotti once dreamed of bringing him to Real Madrid.
According to Pastorello, Ancelotti wanted Lukaku in 2023 to strengthen Real Madrid’s attack. However, the deal never materialized as the club focused its resources on pursuing Kylian Mbappé.
“Carlo really wanted him,” said Pastorello. “He has always admired Lukaku’s qualities, but Madrid were investing heavily in the Mbappé plan, so a loan move wasn’t considered.”
Chelsea Return a “Mistake,” Says Agent
Lukaku’s agent also reflected on the Belgian’s difficult return to Chelsea in 2021, calling it a turning point in his career.
“Looking back, it wasn’t the right decision,” Pastorello admitted. “At the time, Lukaku was on the Ballon d’Or shortlist and a record signing for Chelsea, but the relationship with the coach didn’t work as expected.”
The move ultimately ended with the striker returning to Serie A, where he has since rebuilt his form and confidence.
Conte’s Key Role in Lukaku’s Career
Pastorello also discussed Antonio Conte’s powerful influence on Lukaku’s career — especially his move from Manchester United to Inter in 2019.
“Conte was crystal clear: if Inter didn’t sign Lukaku, he would leave the club,” said Pastorello. “When Romelu heard that, he didn’t hesitate. Their bond was like father and son.”
Lukaku went on to thrive under Conte’s management, becoming Serie A’s top performer and leading Inter to the Scudetto.
Why Italy Still Feels Like Home for Lukaku
Now shining with Napoli, Lukaku continues to prove his comfort in Italian football.
“He feels at home in Italy,” Pastorello noted. “He speaks six or seven languages, connects deeply with the culture, and performs best when he has a strong relationship with his coach.”
Lukaku’s resurgence in Naples has made him one of Serie A’s most talked-about forwards once again.
Inter’s New Prospect: Ange-Yoan Bonny
Pastorello also confirmed that he represents Inter’s new signing, Ange-Yoan Bonny, describing the deal as a management-led decision rather than a coach-driven one.
“Bonny’s transfer came from Inter’s board,” said the agent. “Simone Inzaghi approved it, and the player will benefit from working again with Cristian Chivu.”
Summary
Carlo Ancelotti once had Romelu Lukaku on his wish list for Real Madrid in 2023, but the transfer never happened due to the club’s focus on Mbappé. Lukaku’s journey — marked by ups and downs between Chelsea, Inter, Roma, and now Napoli — continues to capture the football world’s attention
