Tottenham interested in faltering former Prem forward to replace major star who may leave
Tottenham have reportedly ‘shown an interest’ in signing Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku, currently on loan at Inter Milan, amid speculation on Harry Kane leaving.
Lukaku’s not having the best time in Italy. Indeed, a variety of injuries have meant he’s been able to start just six Serie A games this term.
The Belgian has scored just two league goals, as well as netting twice in two Champions League games.
His career likely hasn’t followed the path he thought it would of late. After a £97.5million move back to Chelsea from Inter – where he’d been in fine goalscoring form – the expectation was that he’d light up the Premier League.
However, he scored just eight goals and made it clear his heart was with Inter. And despite struggling for form amid injuries this season, it may still be with them.
Recent reports have suggested the forward has ‘agreed’ to discuss an extension of his loan from Chelsea.
However, whether or not that comes to fruition remains to be seen. Indeed, Lukaku could make a move to another Premier League side in the summer if not.
A report from a Spanish media outlet suggests Tottenham have ‘shown an interest’ in Lukaku. With star man Kane frequently being linked with a move away from the club – Bayern Munich will reportedly try to get him – Spurs will need a ‘quality replacement’.
Whether or not Lukaku can be that is a question in itself. Indeed, his last spell in England with Chelsea left a lot to be desired from such a lucrative asset.
However, he’s scored 121 Premier League goals spanning 278 games for four different clubs. As such, a different system to Chelsea’s could reap rewards for him.
That Antonio Conte has managed him before could mean he’d have a resurgence under him.
However, there are a couple of factors that could make Spurs’ pursuit difficult. Inter won’t go down without a fight given they seem keen to keep hold of the forward.
Furthermore, if Chelsea were to sell, they’d apparently want to ‘recoup most of the £97.5million they paid’ for Lukaku. They might not find anybody willing to pay that after a couple of poor seasons.
If they were to hold out for it, though, Tottenham are ‘unlikely to pay a premium’ for the attacker. If Kane does leave and that’s the case, they’ll likely look elsewhere.