Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku has thrust himself back into the footballing spotlight at the 2026 World Cup, emerging as one of his national team's most potent weapons in the knockout rounds, and in doing so giving himself a fresh opportunity to restore his value in the transfer market at a time when Napoli are weighing up his future.
Lukaku's resurgence comes after what ranks among the most difficult seasons of his career. A left thigh muscle injury kept him off the pitch until January 2026, before a fresh setback effectively ended his campaign, limiting him to just 64 minutes of action across all competitions for Napoli — in which he scored a single goal.
The Belgian striker's difficulties were not confined to injuries. He also suffered the personal blow of losing his father, which took a toll on his mental state and led him, during the international break in March, to remain in Belgium to complete his rehabilitation programme and prepare for the World Cup — a decision that strained his relationship with Napoli's management and his coach Antonio Conte.
Despite those tensions, Lukaku reaffirmed his commitment to the Italian club before the tournament began, saying: "My love for Napoli has not changed. I did not ask to leave, and I still have a year remaining on my contract." Lukaku is contracted to Napoli until the summer of 2027 on an annual salary of 8 million euros, but the club has become open to examining any offers that may arrive after the tournament concludes — particularly if the player continues performing at his current level.
At the World Cup, Lukaku has turned the picture around entirely. Belgium's coach has deployed him as a decisive weapon from the bench. After contributing to the draw against Iran, he was involved in an own goal against Egypt, then scored and created a goal in the heavy win over New Zealand, before making his mark again against Senegal — netting after coming on in the second half to help complete a historic Belgium comeback from 2 goals down to win 3-2 and advance to the round of 16.
He also drew attention for his conduct during the Senegal match, when he stepped aside and gave a crucial penalty kick to a teammate, explaining that he is still going through a difficult psychological period — a moment that revealed the human side of the player alongside his impact on the pitch.
Lukaku's World Cup goals are now reshaping his future. Transfer offers that were nowhere to be seen weeks ago could materialise into concrete proposals once the tournament ends, while Napoli find themselves facing an important decision: retain the Belgian striker for an additional season or cash in on him after his sporting and commercial value has been restored.