Chelsea are ready to offer Romelu Lukaku to Inter Milan in a part-exchange deal to sign Lautaro Martinez, a target for Totteham Hotspur and Manchester United.
According to a report by Italian outlet Inter Live, Chelsea are eyeing a deal for Tottenham and Manchester United target, Lautaro Martinez, by offering the service of 29-year-old striker Romelu Lukaku.
Lukaku’s Chelsea career has not gone the way everyone has hoped. The Belgian striker looked like a pale shadow of himself when he returned to London, and his struggle was pretty evident as he managed just eight goals in 26 Premier League appearances.
Thomas Tuchel had to bench him on a number of occasions. And the Blues had to forego several millions as they loaned the 29-year-old out to Inter Milan in the summer transfer window.
Talks have taken place to extend Lukaku’s loan deal with Inter for another season. But Chelsea will now use their position to bid for Lautaro Martinez, who has been at the top of his game.
Both Tottenham and Manchester United are monitoring the player’s situation and would definitely be interested in a deal if a suitable situation arises. Goals have been scarce for Manchester United, as they have struggled to convert opportunities.
Erik ten Hag has reiterated his desire to sign a striker in January. But Lautaro Martinez will be difficult as Inter will demand a fortune to part ways with him.
Tottenham could definitely use the Argentine’s service as they are toiling hard to shrug off their difficulties. Son Heung-min and Richarlison have been pretty poor this term, and a potential Harry Kane-Lautaro Martinez pair upfront would light up the Premier League.
There would be a difference in the valuation of Martinez between Chelsea and Inter. And the Blues want to compensate for that by offering Lukaku in a part-exchange deal. The former Manchester United forward returned to scoring ways in the UEFA Champions League as the 29-year-old netted his first goal in the competition against Viktoria Plzen.
Chances of completing a deal in January look slim, but the Blues will be pressing for a move next summer rapidly. They might still have to pay a substantial sum given Martinez’s current form. And if he maintains his scoring streak at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, his price will skyrocket.
