Transfer Centre

Romelu Lukaku: 'Paul Pogba key in Manchester United move'

By Matt Law, Football EditorPublished: 09 July 2017 10:30 AM

Romelu Lukaku says that his close relationship with Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba played a key role in the striker choosing to join the Red Devils.

Romelu Lukaku has revealed that his close relationship with Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba played a key role in the striker choosing to join the Red Devils in this summer's transfer window.

Neither Everton nor Man United have officially confirmed the transfer, but Lukaku has already spoken to the media about his move to Old Trafford, which is expected to be completed before the start of next week.

Pogba and Lukaku are currently holidaying in the United States, and the Belgian international has claimed that his close friend played a big role in the deal.

"I've been talking to [Pogba] for about seven or eight years. And now he's living in Manchester," Lukaku told ESPN. "I live in Manchester. He lives like down the road from where I live, so we're together on a daily basis.

"He was explaining to me how it went at the club, and it triggered something in my head. When the opportunity came, I didn't have to think twice. I'm really excited. I think they're all top players, a good group of guys that is hungry to win trophies.

"To play in front of those fans, everything is set there to perform. But, you know, I have to work harder than I'm doing now. I know the road is still far, but I'm willing to go on that path and grab the opportunity that I get."

It is understood that Lukaku completed his Man United medical in Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon.