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Tag: Romelo Lukaku

  • Lukaku ready for Saudi move a year after Al Hilal snub – Sources

    Lukaku ready for Saudi move a year after Al Hilal snub – Sources

    Romelu Lukaku has expressed openness to playing in Saudi Arabia, a year after rejecting a move to Al Hilal.

    The 31-year-old striker’s future remains uncertain, as sources informed ESPN that Chelsea aims to secure a permanent transfer for Lukaku after loaning him to Inter Milan and Roma over the past two seasons.

    Lukaku, who earns approximately £325,000 a week ($415,419) at Stamford Bridge, is a significant financial burden for Chelsea, who are eager to offload his salary to fund new signings.

    With two years left on his Chelsea contract, the club is reluctant to approve another loan move, seeking instead to recoup part of the £97.5 million they paid Inter Milan in 2021.

    Last summer, Chelsea accepted an offer for Lukaku to join Al Hilal, but the striker turned it down. Now, Lukaku views the Saudi Pro League more favourably, especially with the influx of high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema.

    Asked why he hesitated last summer, Lukaku told HLN: “Because everyone only went to Saudi Arabia after I could sign there, I was scared for a while.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zwrS1-1WZvY

    “[Now] Saudi Arabia would not stop me. The level there will only rise to a much higher level than many people think. More and more footballers will tend to play there.

    “Also because of how the fans there experience football. The infrastructure still needs to improve, but all the big top European clubs know: ‘Saudi Arabia is coming.’ You already see that in boxing, golf, and Formula 1.”

    Speaking about the possibility of a move this summer, Lukaku continued: “A lot of people like to talk, maybe because I don’t have an agent. But I’m going to decide. I control my situation myself.

    “I am going to make a choice and once I will explain it, everyone is going to agree with me. Look, every time I decided to stay or leave somewhere, it turned out to be the right choice because of certain factors—for example, my rapport with the coach,” Lukaku said. “It’s like a relationship with a woman. If it doesn’t click anymore, why stay together?”

    Lukaku also reiterated that he would like to end his career back in Belgium with Anderlecht, the club where he turned professional in 2006.

    “It will happen,” he said. “And much earlier than many people think. I left Belgium when I was 18.”

  • Nobody “thinks of him, I mean nobody” – Inter CEO on Lukaku

    Nobody “thinks of him, I mean nobody” – Inter CEO on Lukaku

    Inter Milan, currently positioned second in Serie A with a two-point gap behind city rivals AC Milan after eight matches, has no intentions of engaging in the winter transfer market, as affirmed by club CEO Giuseppe Marotta.

    “I don’t think so,” Marotta said when asked if Inter intended to sign players in the next transfer window. “But are we are Inter and we are always attentive to every situation.

    “And I want to say one thing: before the players were reluctant to accept Inter, now many want to come; last summer we had to say no to a lot of them. [Marcus] Thuram, [Jan] Sommer and [Benjamin] Pavard chose us, it means that Inter are considered credible.”

    During the summer transfer window, Inter sought to secure the services of Romelu Lukaku, who had previously spent the 2022–23 season on loan with the Nerazzurri from Chelsea.

    Inter had been optimistic about extending his stay. Nevertheless, Lukaku opted to join Roma on a season-long loan from Chelsea instead.

    “Lukaku is in the past,” Marotta said. “There is no member of the club that still thinks of him. I mean nobody.”

  • Mourinho knows how to make me grow – Lukaku explain quick start for Roma

    Mourinho knows how to make me grow – Lukaku explain quick start for Roma

    Romelu Lukaku has made a remarkable beginning at Roma and has responded to his critics following yet another impressive display on the field.

    After a disappointing spell at Stamford Bridge, the Belgian striker joined the Italian powerhouse on a season-long loan during the final hours of the transfer window.

    Since then, Lukaku has displayed exceptional form, netting seven goals in eight appearances across all competitions.

    This includes his two goals in the recent 4-1 triumph against newly promoted Cagliari over the weekend.

    His current performances are a stark departure from his time at Chelsea.

    “I prove on the pitch what I can give to a team. Today things went well,” the Roma striker said [via Tuttomercatoweb].

    Lukaku also talked about his special relationship with Jose Mourinho and him being one of the reasons for his good form: “As I’ve said in the past, he and I have a special relationship.

    He knows me and my children,” said the Roma striker. “He’s someone I can trust, and he puts his trust in me. He’s tough, but that’s the only way that I can grow.’

    Thanks to his outstanding performances for Roma, Lukaku has earned a place in the Belgium squad for the upcoming international break.

    During the Euro 2024 qualifying round, Domenico Tedesco’s squad is set to face off against Sweden and Austria.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/W9zqpV-wB64?feature=share

  • Curva Nord ready to give out 50,000 whistles to “blow out their anger at Lukaku for betraying club

    The Inter Ultras group, known as the Curva Nord, is gearing up to distribute 50,000 whistles, which they intend to use against striker Romelu Lukaku during the upcoming clash with Roma.

    Lukaku had infuriated Inter fans during the summer when it was revealed that he had shown interest in joining Juventus, despite previously expressing his desire to stay with the Nerazzurri permanently.

    As fate would have it, the striker eventually signed with Roma and is now scheduled to make a return to San Siro to face his former club at the end of the month.

    Inter supporters have made it abundantly clear that Lukaku should brace himself for a less-than-warm reception upon his comeback to Milan.


    “October 29 is a date we should circle in the calendar so we can be ready to let him hear all our disgust that we feel towards someone who turned his back on us in the most shameful way,” read a statement from the Curva Nord group.


    “A character who proved himself to be a small man because, before being a champion, you must be a man and know how to keep your word.
    “We defended you with swords drawn and you repaid us by turning your back. Before the game against Roma, the Curva Nord will hand out 50,000 whistles to be used at every touch of the ball from those who betrayed our jersey. Let us all show how someone who proved himself unworthy to wear this shirt ought to be treated.”

    Lukaku was brought on board by the Giallorossi during the final days of the summer transfer window, and he has made a promising beginning to his time in the Italian capital.

    The Belgian forward made a significant impact by netting the opening goal in Roma’s 1-0 victory over Frosinone last Sunday.

    This marked his fourth goal in just six appearances for the club.

    Lukaku is now poised to make his highly anticipated return to San Siro on October 29 when Inter hosts Roma in a Serie A fixture.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCLNVTLlkTw
  • Inter boss Simone Inzaghi speaks on Lukaku’s looming transfer to Roma

    Inter boss Simone Inzaghi speaks on Lukaku’s looming transfer to Roma

    Following Inter’s 2-0 victory over Cagliari, Inter manager Simone Inzaghi shared his perspective on Romelu Lukaku’s impending transfer to Roma.

    The Chelsea and Belgian forward is on the brink of returning to Italy, with Jose Mourinho eager to secure his services on a loan arrangement for the capital club.

    The transfer saga has been a protracted one with many unexpected turns.

    Lukaku reportedly declined the opportunity to make his loan stint at Inter permanent, initially eyeing a move to Juventus.

    Eventually, he shifted his focus to Roma, perceiving that negotiations with Juventus were protracted.


    When Inzaghi was asked to comment on Lukaku’s proposed loan move to Roma, the Inter boss told reporters: “As far as Lukaku is concerned, Roma have made an excellent signing. For the rest, I am very satisfied with my players, with the values they have and with the Inter family.”


    In order to finalise his transfer to Roma, Lukaku is expected to undergo a substantial reduction in his wages. His current earnings, estimated at around £325,000 per week, exceed what Roma can feasibly afford to pay in full.

    Maintaining his eagerness, Mourinho is enthusiastic about the prospect of reuniting with the striker, building on their previous collaboration during their time at Manchester United.

    He is “quietly observing” Roma’s actions in bolstering their attacking options as the summer transfer window nears its conclusion.

    Lukaku seems poised to depart Stamford Bridge, concluding a less-than-stellar second tenure with Chelsea.

    To facilitate his move to Roma, the striker has agreed to reduced remuneration. In exchange for his services, Roma is expected to provide Chelsea with a £5 million loan fee.

  • Lukaku agrees to pay cut as Chelsea agrees on a £5m loan deal with Roma

    Romelu Lukaku is set to reunite with Jose Mourinho at AS Roma, following Chelsea’s acceptance of a £5 million ($6 million) loan proposal from the Italian club.

    Roma has reached an agreement to pay £5 million for Lukaku’s season-long loan, as reported by The Telegraph.

    In a notable move, the Belgian forward has agreed to a reduced salary, negating Chelsea’s responsibility for any portion of his £6 million ($8 million) earnings during his time in Rome.

    Initially, Lukaku seemed destined to stay with Chelsea this season, declining offers from Inter, Juventus, and the Saudi Arabian team Al-Hilal.

    While Chelsea was eager to offload the 30-year-old striker, they have now succeeded in removing his salary from their financial commitments for the remainder of the season.

    Lukaku will be making a return to Italy, this time playing under the guidance of Mourinho, who previously managed him during their time together at Manchester United.

    Acquired by Chelsea from Inter for £97.5 million ($135 million) in 2021, Lukaku has consented to an additional reduction in his wages in case he makes a comeback to Chelsea after this forthcoming season.

    Notably, he still has three years left on his existing contract.

  • Lukaku eyes Roma as Juve move delays excessively

    Lukaku eyes Roma as Juve move delays excessively

    Romelu Lukaku is reportedly set to reject Juventus and opt for a season-long loan deal with AS Roma under the management of Jose Mourinho, departing from Chelsea.

    Lukaku’s transfer saga has taken an unexpected twist, with the striker now veering away from a move to Juventus. As per The Telegraph, discussions are underway for him to join Roma on loan for the upcoming season.

    This surprising shift has led Chelsea to reassess their stance, considering the possibility of allowing Lukaku to depart on loan, a change from their earlier insistence on a permanent transfer.

    Lukaku’s decision to spurn Juventus arises from his belief that negotiations have been prolonged excessively, leading him to no longer favour a move to Turin.

    Although the final details of the arrangement are being settled, it’s improbable that a buy-option will be incorporated into the deal.

    In the meantime, Juventus presented a proposal wherein Chelsea would pay £30 million ($23.5 million) and trade Lukaku for Dusan Vlahovic.

    Nonetheless, Chelsea rejected this proposition.

    While Lukaku had previously rejected advances from Al-Hilal, he remains steadfast in his desire to continue his career in Europe.

    Nevertheless, there have been indications that other clubs in the Pro League are also interested in signing him if he doesn’t secure a club before the transfer window closes.

    Any such proposal, however, would likely be considerably less favourable than Al-Hilal’s offer.

    Having trained with Chelsea’s U21 team due to not featuring in Mauricio Pochettino’s plans, Lukaku’s potential move to Roma on loan could mark a pivotal juncture in his career, presenting a golden opportunity for him to rejuvenate his trajectory.

  • Juve fans storm pitch with ‘we don’t want Lukaku chants’ amid links with Chelsea flop

    Juve fans storm pitch with ‘we don’t want Lukaku chants’ amid links with Chelsea flop


    It’s quite evident that Juventus fans are far from pleased with their club’s efforts to secure the services of Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea.

    The frustration among Juve supporters reached a boiling point at the Allianz Stadium, where a training match involving the first team and the reserve side turned into utter chaos.

    The supporters used this opportunity to express their strong opposition to the potential acquisition of the 30-year-old striker, passionately chanting, “We don’t want Lukaku!”

    Reportedly, the Belgian national player has come to terms on personal conditions with the Serie A side. This sets the stage for a potential transfer from Chelsea during this summer’s transfer window.

    As part of this potential deal, Dusan Vlahovic is being suggested as a player who might move in the opposite direction from Juventus to Chelsea.

    https://twitter.com/MaxNerozzi/status/1689344130961338368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1689344130961338368%7Ctwgr%5Ef20c39e60e9e9ec7b4b7c13d374daa8bf54d404f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goal.com%2Fen-us%2Fnews%2Fromelu-lukaku-message-juventus-fans-invade-pitch-chant-we-dont-want-lukaku-chelsea%2Fbltfe596b838066e9b4


    Romelu Lukaku is no stranger to Serie A, having previously played for Inter, the archrivals of Juventus, on two separate occasions.

    In fact, during the 2020–21 season, he clinched the top scorer title while propelling Antonio Conte’s Nerazzurri squad to the championship.

    Intriguingly, Juve’s most passionate fans, the ultras, have previously cautioned the club against acquiring Lukaku.

    The verdict on whether the Juventus leadership will persist in their pursuit of the former Manchester United player remains uncertain.

    However, reports indicate that Chelsea has no interest in securing Dusan Vlahovic as part of the deal.

    With the potential for further unrest and the additional complication of the club’s ongoing exclusion from European competitions this season, Juventus finds itself in the midst of considerable turmoil.

  • ‘Seemingly frustrated’ Lukaku resort to DMX lyric ‘being neglected’s the norm’ over Chelsea transfer situation

    ‘Seemingly frustrated’ Lukaku resort to DMX lyric ‘being neglected’s the norm’ over Chelsea transfer situation

    Romelu Lukaku has turned to iconic rapper DMX to express his anger about the uncertainty surrounding his future.


    Despite expectations of his departure from Chelsea, the striker has not secured a move yet, as Inter’s interest has waned, and talks with Juventus have not yet led to a finalized deal.

    The player’s frustration seems evident, and he is finding inspiration from the late and legendary DMX.

    Romelu Lukaku, the striker from Chelsea, updated his Instagram biography with lyrics from DMX’s song “How’s It Goin’ Down,” sharing the message: “Respect is not expected but it’s given ’cause it’s real. Being neglected’s the norm, expect it, the deal.”

    Following his loan spell at Inter last season, the Serie A club had hoped to secure Lukaku on a permanent basis.

    However, it has been reported that the 30-year-old stopped responding to their phone calls.

    Simultaneously, he initiated talks with Juventus for a potential transfer, causing displeasure and outrage among fans of both Inter and Juventus.


    Lukaku has utilized     social media in the past to respond to criticism, as evidenced by a cryptic message he posted on Instagram last week.

  • Inter Milan set to finalize permanent deal for Lukaku

    Inter Milan set to finalize permanent deal for Lukaku

    Romelu Lukaku is nearing a permanent transfer from Chelsea to Inter Milan.

    Following Inter’s Serie A victory in 2021, Lukaku initially returned to Stamford Bridge for a second stint but subsequently went back to the San Siro on loan last season.

    Despite having two bids rejected by Chelsea, Inter is determined to secure the services of the striker. A look at what will take to finalise the deal

    Chelsea valuation

    Inter’s opening offer of £23million for Lukaku was reportedly rejected, as was an improved bid of £26m. 

    Chelsea are said to be holding out for £40m, having already dismissed the notion of allowing the forward to leave on another loan deal. 

    That valuation might seem like a lot of money for a goalscorer who recently turned 30 but it is worth remembering that the West Londoners paid £97.5m to bring him back to Stamford Bridge only two years ago. 

    Inter are not too far away from the Blues’ price tag and might be able to seal the transfer once they have brought in funds from a major sale. 

    Goalkeeper Andre Onana is on the brink of moving to Manchester United after a fee of £47m was agreed for the Cameroonian. 

    That transfer getting over the line could be key to Lukaku returning to Inter permanently. 

    Romelu Lukaku scored eight Premier League goals for Chelsea in 2021-22
    Romelu Lukaku scored eight Premier League goals for Chelsea in 2021-22
    Other suitors

    Inter are not the only club said to be interested in signing Lukaku this summer.

    He has been linked with a move to Juventus as a possible replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, should the Serbian depart Turin.

    Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal are also thought to be in the mix and have offered the Belgium international a three-year contract worth a reported £26m per season. 

    So there is pressure on Inter to complete a deal, with Lukaku once again a wanted man, despite a very mixed campaign in 2022-23. 

    The striker missed most of the first half of the season with injury, punctuated with a disastrous 2022 World Cup with Belgium in which he looked far from his best. 

    Yet in the closing weeks he found form, with his last seven Serie A games seeing him score seven goals and assisting four more. 

    That spell no doubt played a major part in convincing Inter to buy Lukaku but it also ensured that they would have competition and that Chelsea could request a relatively high fee. 

    The trump card that Inter have when it comes to getting this deal done is that Lukaku loves the club. 

    Shortly after exiting the San Siro to join Chelsea in 2021, he revealed that he had not wanted to leave the Nerazzurri and that he hoped to one day return. 

    He said: “I want to say a big apology to the Inter fans because I think the way I left should have been different. 

    “I really hope in the depths of my heart to return to Inter, not at the end of my career, but at a still good level to hopefully win more.” 

    It may take some more time — and interest from elsewhere could complicate matters — but it looks as if Lukaku may get his wish to return to Inter permanently. 

    With Simone Inzaghi’s men favourites to win Serie A next season, he could also lift the silverware he craves.

  • Lukaku agrees with the Blues to bow out of club this season

    Contrary to the initial plan, Romelu Lukaku did not join Chelsea for pre-season on Wednesday.

    The decision for the forward to stay away from the Chelsea squad was mutually agreed upon by Lukaku and the club.

    Newly appointed manager Mauricio Pochettino had previously expressed his expectation for all returning players, including Lukaku, to visit his office for an introductory conversation.

    It is widely acknowledged by all parties involved that the best course of action is for the Belgian striker to move on, with Lukaku expressing his preference for a move to Inter Milan despite interest from Saudi Arabia.

    By delaying Lukaku’s return to London, Chelsea hopes to allow more time for the clubs to find a suitable solution.

    Inter are yet to agree a deal with Chelsea but negotiations are ongoing. Chelsea leave for their US tour on 17 July and hope a deal can be reached before then.

    Mauricio Pochettino will take charge of Chelsea for the first time when they start the 2023/24 Premier League season at home to Liverpool, live on Sky Sports, on Sunday August 13.

    Chelsea then head to London rivals West Ham on August 19 before welcoming newly promoted Luton Town to Stamford Bridge on August 26.

    Pochettino, who begins his role with the Blues on July 1, will visit his former club Tottenham on November 4 with the return fixture scheduled for February 24.

  • Lukaku willing to take pay cut to stay at Inter permanently

    Lukaku willing to take pay cut to stay at Inter permanently

    Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku has expressed his willingness to accept a significant reduction in salary in order to secure a permanent move to Inter Milan.

    Lukaku spent the 2022-2023 season on loan with the Serie A giants and has developed a strong desire to remain at the San Siro for the upcoming season.

    Reports suggest that the Belgian forward is prepared to take a pay cut of £1 million in order to facilitate the transfer to Inter.

    This indicates Lukaku’s commitment to joining the Italian club and potentially highlights his preference for regular playing time and a long-term association with Inter Milan.

    Sky Sports’ Paul Gilmour said: “As of today, there is still no agreement between Chelsea and Inter Milan for any potential permanent move for Romelu Lukaku.

    “Chelsea are not interested in another loan.

    “We have learned that Lukaku is willing to take a pay cut worth almost £1m per year to get this move to Inter.”

  • Lukaku to join Ronaldo in Saudi as Al-Hilal offers him mouth-watering deal

    Lukaku to join Ronaldo in Saudi as Al-Hilal offers him mouth-watering deal

    Confirmation has come in that Romelu Lukaku has received a formal offer from Al-Hilal, which potentially paves the way for him to join Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia.

    After spending the 2022-23 season on loan at Inter, the Chelsea striker traveled to Saudi Arabia on Monday to meet with officials from Al-Hilal, as reported by GOAL.

    Al-Hilal has put forward a two-season contract proposal to Lukaku, amounting to a total of €50 million.

    Lukaku is set to return to Chelsea following the expiration of his loan deal with Inter. Reports suggest that Inter may not have the financial means to secure his permanent signing, and the newly-appointed Chelsea manager, Mauricio Pochettino, is apparently open to giving Lukaku another opportunity at Stamford Bridge.

    However, GOAL confirmed that Lukaku is very much open to a switch to Al-Hilal. The 30-year-old will first try to squeeze an even larger salary out of the club, though, as he wants to be rewarded handsomely if he is to turn his back on European football.

    Al-Hilal will have to enter into direct negotiations with Chelsea if they strike an agreement with Lukaku.

    The Blues are open to a sale as they seek to trim their squad ahead of the new season, but will ask for a fee in excess of €50 million. 

    GOAL understands that Al-Hilal are reluctant to pay that much for Lukaku, but they will be receptive to a potential compromise with Chelsea to push a final deal over the line.

    The Chelsea forward has expressed his desire to remain at Inter, who reached the 2022-23 Champions League final only to lose 1-0 against Manchester City, but it appears unlikely that the Italian giants will be able to keep him for another year.

    The lure of riches in Saudi Arabia could prove too strong for Lukaku to ignore, with Ronaldo paving the way for more high-profile stars to play in the Middle East after his record-breaking switch to Al-Nassr in December.

    Ronaldo’s former team-mate Karim Benzema has since left Real Madrid to join Al-Ittihad, with Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante also now set to complete a move to the Saudi Pro League champions.

  • Lukaku recounts Thierry Henry’s scold which sent starplayer off training

    Lukaku recounts Thierry Henry’s scold which sent starplayer off training

    Romelu Lukaku has shared a touching memory he has with former footballer Thierry Henry. Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation, Henry won numerous trophies during his playing days with Arsenal and Barcelona.

    After retiring from the game, Henry tried his hand at management, but his spells with Monaco and Montreal Impact did not yield the desired results.

    However, he found success as Roberto Martinez’s assistant in the Belgian national team set-up, where they dominated FIFA rankings for a long period of time and reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.

    It was during his time with the Belgian national team that Henry built a close relationship with Lukaku.

    Romelu Lukaku and Thierry Henry have a close bond that goes beyond their love for football. The two met during Henry’s stint as Roberto Martinez’s assistant in the Belgian national team set-up. As part of his role, Henry was responsible for training the team’s strikers, and Lukaku was one of the beneficiaries of his vast experience.

    Romelo Lukaku and Henry

    As Martinez’s assistant, one of Henry’s responsibilities was to train the team’s strikers, given his wealth of experience, having won the World Cup with France during his playing days.

    In a past video interview with Henry, Lukaku reminisced about what it was like to train alongside the French legend.

    He revealed that Henry used to participate in the training drills and, despite his age, still displayed his impressive skill and class on the pitch.

    Lukaku’s admiration for Henry is evident, and his recounting of their shared experiences is a testament to the bond they formed during their time together on the Belgian national team.

    The Belgian striker’s comments also shed light on the importance of having experienced and knowledgeable coaches who can provide valuable insights and guidance to players.

    Henry’s experience as a player undoubtedly played a crucial role in his success as Martinez’s assistant, and Lukaku’s account of their training sessions together highlights the benefits of having a former player as a coach.

    The Belgian national team’s success during Henry’s time as assistant coach speaks for itself, and his impact on the team and its players cannot be understated.

    “I think, in the national team when you were there, I think for us, the strikers, we had maybe the best time we could have ever had because the competition was there.”

    The 29-year-old shed light on how Henry once embarrassed an unnamed player, causing him to leave the pitch.

    “I remember when my brother came and he was like, ‘you did this skill in training’, but I’m not going to say any names, but the player left the pitch,” Lukaku said, as quoted by the Mirror.

    The Red Devils did not have a very promising World Cup campaign after they exited in the group stage.

    Martinez resigned immediately afterwards and ended up taking the Portugal job. Henry also left after the appointment of Domenico Tedesco as new coach, per AP News.

    So close was the relationship between the striker and the former player, Lukaku wanted Henry to succeed Martinez as manager on a full-time basis.

    It was previously reported on the forward saying the Frenchman had the distinction of having won everything and had many players’ respect the respect of many players.

    Despite Lukaku’s hopes for Henry to succeed Martinez, the Belgian Football Association opted to go with Tedesco instead. It remains to be seen what the future holds for Henry, but his legacy as one of the greatest strikers of his generation is secure.

    Before Tedesco’s appointment as Belgium’s new head coach, many names had been floated, including Manchester City legend, Vincent Kompany.

  • It’s a come back for Lukaku to Chelsea as Mauricio Pochettino ready to offer a second chance

    It’s a come back for Lukaku to Chelsea as Mauricio Pochettino ready to offer a second chance

    Romelu Lukaku is about to receive a second chance at Chelsea after a dismal return from injury last year.

    Lukaku signed a five-year contract with Chelsea for over 100 million euros when he departed Inter Milan at the beginning of the 2021–2022 season.

    After Diego Costa left the Blues, they had struggled to find a quality striker, and there was widespread belief that the Belgian could fill the void and allay those worries.


    The team had just won the league title after a dominant season under Antonio Conte.

    Despite a positive start under then-manager Thomas Tuchel, the 29-year-old quickly waned off by falling victim to the curse that is Chelsea’s number 9 shirt.

    A dispute between him and Tuchel over an unauthorised interview led to a significant reduction in minutes as well.

    He was shipped back to Inter Milan on loan, with the Italian giant’s non-committal on his long-term future. As the Telegraph now reports, Chelsea would be willing to welcome the burly striker back and give him a chance under incoming coach Mauricio Pochettino.

    The Argentine is expected to be appointed as the new Chelsea coach, as it is always the norm with new bosses, sidelined players often get a new lease of life to prove themselves.

    At the end of this season, he will have three more years on his current deal.

    What Pochettino can offer Chelsea

    At the same time, Pochettino’s lack of trophies during his first spell in England with Tottenham Hotspur has always been a consideration when judging his suitability to manage a top club.

    However, it is belived he might be the answer to a struggling Chelsea side in dire need of an uplift.

    After Nagelsmann and Enrique withdrew, and with Zinedine Zidane reportedly focused on Juventus, Pochettino was probably the only option Chelsea had.

  • Where would Lukaku go as inter has no plans of renewing negotiation with Chelsea?

    Where would Lukaku go as inter has no plans of renewing negotiation with Chelsea?

    There are no current plans to pursue transfer negotiations with Chelsea, and Romelu Lukaku’s future at Inter appears to be up for grabs.

    The Serie A giants lured the Belgian international striker back to San Siro in the summer of 2022, a year after selling him to Chelsea Bridge for £98 million ($122 million).

    Lukaku has struggled to find his footing since moving back to Italy, scoring only seven goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this season.

    Only three efforts have come in the league, with two of those strikes coming from the penalty spot.

    Lukaku’s last Serie A goal from open play came in a season opener against Lecce in August 2022.

    With the 29-year-old struggling for form and fitness this term, Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Inter will not be looking to bring him back for 2023-24.

    Instead of holding more talks with Chelsea, Inter will be turning their attention elsewhere.

    Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino and Borussia Monchengladbach star Marcus Thuram are said to be in the Nerazzurri’s thoughts, as they are both heading towards free agency.

    Argentina-born Italy international Mateo Retegui, who is currently on loan at Tigre, is another top target for the Milan giants.

    With no deal for Lukaku on the cards, the burly Belgian will be forced to return to west London this summer – with his contract at Chelsea due to run until 2026.

  • Mbappe, Drogba, sympathizes with Lukaku after suffering racial abuse

    Mbappe, Drogba, sympathizes with Lukaku after suffering racial abuse

    Romelu Lukaku, the Inter Milan striker who on Tuesday night endured horrifying racial abuse, has gained the support of the entire football community.

    When Inter Milan played Juventus in the Coppa Italia semifinal at the San Siro Stadium, Lukaku was exposed to racial taunts.

    A succession of nasty situations were caused by the Belgian’s excitement after scoring a last-second penalty.

    He was involved in a scuffle with Juan Cuadrado, with the Juve utility player punching Inter captain, Samir Handanovic.

    The three – Lukaku, Cuadrado, and Handanovic – were all sent off. Lukaku’s sports agency, Roc Nation issued a stinging response, calling for an end to racism against their client.

    “Tonight’s racist remarks made towards Romelu Lukaku by Juventus fans in Turin were beyond despicable and cannot be accepted.”

    A couple of leading stars, both former and current, have joined in condemning the incident.

    Kylian Mbappe left a love emoji for Lukaku: “2023 and still the same problems, but we are not going to let you do it. All against racism,” he said, as quoted by ESPN.

    Chelsea legend, Didier Drogba took to his Twitter and wrote: “When your talent and strength start hurting them and you’re becoming bigger and better, their stupidity arises.”

    Lukaku’s parent club, Chelsea also left a message of support alongside a couple of Blues players including Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah.

    Kevin De Bruyne also reshared Roc Nation’s message on his Instagram stories.

    Sky Sports has reported that Juventus are working with authorities to identify the perpetrators of the racist acts.

    Lukaku breaks silence on racism

    At the same time, Sports Brief reported the Chelsea striker, on loan at Inter, expressed his outrage on Instagram after the incident.

    He used the phrase ‘history repeats itself’, referring to a similar incident in 2019 when Cagliari fans aimed racist slurs at him.

  • Inzaghi rise to Lukaku’s defense, says, he was ‘misunderstood’

    Inzaghi rise to Lukaku’s defense, says, he was ‘misunderstood’

    Following Romelu Lukaku’s late-game mayhem at Juventus on Tuesday, Simone Inzaghi defended the “misunderstood” striker’s celebrations.

    Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semifinal, loanee forward Lukaku’s 95th-minute penalty at the Allianz Stadium brought Inter back into the match.

    Immediately after the Belgian international’s celebration in front of Juve’s Curva Nord, Lukaku got into a fight with Juan Cuadrado and was sent off for receiving a second yellow card.

    Cuadrado, who scored the 83rd-minute opener, was then dismissed for a clash with Inter captain Samir Handanovic after the full-time whistle as tempers continued to boil over in Turin.

    Inzaghi insisted Lukaku’s reaction was understandable, though, as the Inter coach bemoaned losing his key forward and goalkeeper Handanovic to suspension.

    Asked whether Lukaku’s celebration was towards the crowd, Inzaghi told Mediaset: “Yes. This was clear, but it goes beyond this.

    “I see a player who scores, celebrates, and everything happens there. Lukaku’s celebration was misunderstood.

    “It certainly wasn’t a nice sight to see in a well-conducted and fair match until the 94th minute.

    “[But] now I have to be clear-headed and think that for the return semi-final. Lukaku’s celebration will deprive me of him and Handanovic.”

  • Juventus ‘very angry’ after Lukaku’s penalty as Allegri laments the ‘avoidable’ leveller

    Juventus ‘very angry’ after Lukaku’s penalty as Allegri laments the ‘avoidable’ leveller

    Romelu Lukaku’s dramatic equaliser for Inter on Tuesday left Juventus “very angry,” leaving Massimiliano Allegri to lament a “avoidable situation.”

    Juan Cuadrado’s 83rd-minute goal in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semifinal was cancelled out by Lukaku’s 95th-minute penalty at the Allianz Stadium.

    After Lukaku restored parity, there were chaotic scenes as Cuadrado and Inter captain Samir Handanovic were given their marching orders for fighting after the game had ended.

    While Allegri suggested he missed the carnage unfolding after the full-time whistle, the Juve coach called on the Bianconeri players to regroup after an avoidable late goal for Simone Inzaghi’s visitors.

    He told Mediaset: “I don’t know anything because the match was over and I went in. I know there were some dismissals.

    “It’s a pity because the game was over and we needed to be quicker on the first ball that came out.

    “[Filip] Kostic could have been a little smarter but the match was balanced and the result was fair. We’re sorry because with 20 seconds to go it was an avoidable situation.

    “I saw the boys very angry about this draw but we have to be good at accepting it.”

    Juve will head to San Siro on April 26 with the last-four clash finely poised, though Allegri’s side must focus on a crucial run-in this month before then.

    The Bianconeri visit Lazio in Serie A on Sunday, trailing the top four by just six points despite their 15-point deduction following an investigation into previous transfer dealings.

    A two-legged Europa League quarter-final against Sporting CP follows either side of a league meeting with Sassuolo, before Juve host Serie A leaders Napoli ahead of the return Coppa Italia meeting with Inter.

    Looking ahead to that second leg, Allegri said: “We have that match in a month, now we have important commitments. 

    “We have three league games before the return plus Sporting. We’ll think about the Coppa Italia later. 

    “It will be a tight match where we will need to win, but now we need to focus on the championship.”