Bayern Munich could target out of favour Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku if they lose Robert Lewandowski.
A recent report from L’Equipe (h/t Tutto Mercato Web) has offered an update on Bayern Munich’s stance on Robert Lewandowski. The German Rekordmeister are expected to hold talks with the Pole’s agent Pini Zahavi in the coming days, offering him a one-year contract extension with no pay raise.
If the two parties fail to find an agreement, Bayern are ready to put Lewandowski on the market, for a fee of around €60 million. The report further suggests the Bavarians have identified several options in the market as potential replacements for the former Dortmund striker, including Chelsea frontman Romelu Lukaku.
Currently struggling at Stamford Bridge, the Belgian is unhappy upon his return to Chelsea. He has failed to live up to his hefty price tag and believes Thomas Tuchel’s tactics aren’t getting the best out of him. His relationship with the Chelsea coach isn’t exactly healthy either, which has led to a lack of game-time this season.
Unhappy with his role at Chelsea, Lukaku is keen on forcing through an exit from Stamford Bridge in the summer. His priority is to return to Inter Milan, but the Nerazzurri might not be in a position to afford the former Manchester United superstar.
Bayern Munich, however, could be an interesting destination for the 28-year-old Lukaku. If Lewandowski departs Allianz Arena this summer, the Bavarians could be in a position to afford the physically imposing forward, though a lot may depend on how much Chelsea demand for the services of their attacking asset.
The Blues had signed Lukaku for a staggering €113 million. They cannot hope to recoup most of that amount, but even if they end up demanding as much as €80 million, the situation could get tricky for Bayern.
Serge Gnabry could play a key role in this operation. The attacker’s contract expires at the end of next season, with many expecting Bayern to generate a transfer revenue off his sale this summer as they are not willing to meet the winger’s wage demands.
Gnabry’s sale could enable Bayern to afford someone like Lukaku, although it will be equally important for the German giants to negotiate an even lower fee with Chelsea. Bayern, after all, are in a difficult situation, with three of their legendary players nearing the final phase of their respective contracts.
