Transfer wrap: Chelsea sign Lukaku

Anderlecht have agreed to sell young forward Romelu Lukaku to Chelsea.

Although the finer details of the move are yet to be confirmed by either club, the 18-year-old will join Andre Villas-Boas’ side once formalities and a medical have been finalised.

A statement on Anderlecht’s website read: “RSC Anderlecht and Chelsea FC have today (on Saturday) reached a final agreement on the transfer of striker Romelu Lukaku.”

“Subject to the results of medical tests and the handling of final details between the player and his new club, Romelu will become a Chelsea player as of the 2011-2012 season.”

The sporting director of the Brussels-based side, Herman Van Holsbeeck expressed his initial disappointment at the move, but wished the starlet all the best in the future.

“It is unfortunate that we must let Romelu, a player discovered and coached by Anderlecht, go, but the transfer is a win-win situation for the player and the club.”

“he management is committed to finding a good replacement for Romelu as soon as possible, but we wish him good luck for the rest of his career.”

Lukaku also confirmed the move on his Twitter account, where he told followers that he will be travelling to London next week to undergo a medical.

“I have an announcement to make… Next week I’m going to London for the medical tests! #Chelsea,” said the tweet.

The forward, of Congolese descent, is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young striking talents, already hitting double-figures in his two full seasons leading the line for Anderlecht.

Roma have signed attacking midfielder Erik Lamela from relegated Argentine Primera Division side River Plate for a fee of 12 million euros.

The 19-year-old’s move to the Olimpico had been in the pipeline throughout the summer, but now Lamela has agreed a five-year deal with Luis Enrique’s men.

“For the acquisition of Erik Lamela, an agreement has been reached for a fee equal to €12 million, payable in three instalments,” a statement on Roma’s official website said.

“The footballer has signed a five-year contract, with effect from the date of issue and expiry on June 30, 2016, where he will earn 1.8 million euros for the season 2011-2012, rising to 2.15 million, for the seasons 2012-2013 and 2013-2014, 2.5 million for the 2014-2015 season, and 2.86 million euros for the season 2015/2016, in addition to additional achievement bonuses.”

The young Argentine joins Gabriel Heinze, Bojan Krkic, Jose Angel and Maarten Stekelenburg amongst the new faces in Rome this season.