Credit: Imago

Daniel Lewis

Tue 21 April 2026 19:10, UK

Romelu Lukaku returning to Everton has been mooted by Darren Bent amid the striker’s recent fallout at Napoli.

The Belgium international was previously on Everton’s books between 2013 and 2017, scoring 87 goals in 166 appearances.

Lukaku has since played for Manchester United, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Roma and now current side Napoli.

However, the striker was at the centre of disciplinary action last month after supposedly ignoring a request to attend training in Italy.

Amid another update on Lukaku’s future at the Italian club, Bent has offered his say on a possible transfer to Everton.

European football could see Romelu Lukaku back at Everton

Lukaku understandably remains well thought of on Merseyside after his numerous years of service for the Toffees.

It is therefore not surprising Everton have been linked with a move for Lukaku should he leave Napoli this summer.

A fresh report on Monday claimed Lukaku has now held clear-the-air talks with Napoli, with the reigning Serie A champions allowing to continue his injury rehabilitation in Belgium.

Discussing that story live on talkSPORT Drive on Tuesday, former Tottenham striker Bent said: “His goals record is crazy.

“He was the missing piece at Chelsea, but it didn’t work at Man United. He was brilliant at Everton. Evertonians still look back on that time fondly.”

Asked by co-host Andy Goldstein if he could go back to Everton this summer, Bent said: “Imagine getting him. He was unplayable.”

Goldstein went on to suggest that Everton returning to European football could help sway Lukaku’s decision to return to the club.

Would Lukaku fit into David Moyes’ starting XI?

While Beto and Thierno Barry have showed glimpses of what they can do this season, it is clear David Moyes would love a prolific number nine.

But would Lukaku really be that man? Now aged 32 – he turns 33 next month – it is fair to say Lukaku is no longer at his peak.

And unfortunately for Lukaku, he has been restricted to just seven appearances for Napoli in all competitions this season, none of those being starts.

A fully-fit Lukaku can still bang them in, but Everton and Moyes would not want to gamble on signing a player who cannot guarantee they will stay fit.

While a player returning always sounds romantic, nine times out of 10 it is best to avoid. And that is exactly the case in this situation.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.