Jose Mourinho says Romelu Lukaku a 'natural fit' as striker calls Manchester United 'opportunity of a lifetime'

The Belgian signs for an initial £75m which could eventually rise to a world-record fee

Jose Mourinho has described Romelu Lukaku a “natural fit for Manchester United” after the Old Trafford club confirmed his signing from Everton.

The Belgian, who joined for an initial £75m fee which could rise to a world-record transfer, has signed a five-year deal with the club, with an option of a further year.

The 24-year-old will join the club in Los Angeles, where he has been holidaying alongside new teammate Paul Pogba, on United’s preseason tour of the United States.

Mourinho previously managed Lukaku while Chelsea manager and sold him to Everton for £28m, but has insisted he is “looking forward” to having him at his disposal once again.

“Romelu is a natural fit for Manchester United,” Mourinho told manutd.com. “He is a big personality and a big player.

“It is only natural that he wants to develop his career at the biggest club. He will be a great addition to the group and I know they will make him very welcome. I am really looking forward to working with him again.”

Lukaku was left frustrated in his bid to win the Premier League’s golden boot last season, with Tottenham’s Harry Kane eventually beating him to the title, but he is sure than he can improve with what he has described as an “opportunity of a lifetime”.

“I would like to start by thanking Everton and the fans for the last four wonderful seasons, I have made some special friends and we have shared some amazing moments,” Lukaku said.

“However, when Manchester United and Jose Mourinho come knocking at the door it is an opportunity of a lifetime and one that I could not turn down. You could see the fight, determination and the spirit in this team during the Europa League final and I want to become a part of that.

“I cannot wait to run out at Old Trafford in front of 75,000 fans but before that pre-season is where the hard work starts and I am looking forward to that first training session.”