Tuchel ‘keen’ for Chelsea to sell disappointing star whose next move could push Arsenal, Tottenham target on
Thomas Tuchel is willing for Chelsea to move on from Romelu Lukaku in the summer if either of his two main suitors come calling, a report has revealed.
The relationship between Tuchel and Lukaku since the striker re-joined Chelsea last summer has not been the best. Lukaku has not felt as at home in Tuchel’s system as he did when working for Antonio Conte at Inter Milan.
He has made no secret of that fact. It led to his omission from some matchday squads after the turn of the year. Even since his return to action, the rewards have not been plentiful.
So far this season, Lukaku has only scored five Premier League goals. That is not what they expected from someone who scored 24 Serie A goals last season before a near-£100m transfer.
Therefore, 90min are now reporting that Tuchel is willing for Chelsea to take what they can from selling Lukaku in the summer.
It depends, of course, on whether a takeover of the club goes through in time for them to be allowed to execute transfer operations. However, should all go to plan, Lukaku is someone whose future will be at risk as they re-shape their squad.
In turn, two clubs are interested in signing him, the report reveals. Inter would like to take him back if possible, but face competition from Paris Saint-Germain.
In Inter’s case, the plan would be to form a partnership between Lukaku and Paulo Dybala. The latter will be leaving Juventus as a free agent in the summer; he could consequently replace Arsenal and Tottenham target Lautaro Martinez at San Siro.
PSG, meanwhile, have their own plans to evolve up front. That could also include a pursuit of Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo.
Chelsea to cut losses on Lukaku
It is not yet clear how much Chelsea may ask for the transfer of Lukaku. The report does make it clear that this would be an act of cutting losses, rather than receiving a similar amount to their recent investment.
Lukaku, who turns 29 next month, is under contract until 2026 with Chelsea. But it now appears they are ready to sever their ties.
That may prompt them to look for replacements in the transfer market, but any such plans remain undisclosed.
For now, attacking midfielder Kai Havertz – who has scored 13 goals this season – should continue to lead the line at Stamford Bridge.
READ MORE: Chelsea could cash in on key man with former manager ‘desperate’ to lure him away in ambitious move
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