AC Milan's ambitious pursuit of Romelu Lukaku is gaining momentum with ongoing negotiations involving Chelsea and the Belgian striker's representatives, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport.
This push for Lukaku isn't merely a decoy tactic, as the Milanese club's management is earnestly interacting with Chelsea and Lukaku's entourage. A concrete offer has been tabled for the 30-year-old Belgian, who is being viewed as an ideal match for Stefano Pioli's tactical approach. Despite the contradictions with the club's youthful project, Lukaku's high salary isn't dissuading the Rossoneri.
Inter Milan's top brass, led by Steven Zhang, have come to terms with the fact that another loan spell for Lukaku seems implausible, as expressed by Chelsea during their engagement with Lukaku's agents.
Selling the striker demands a €40m price tag. Currently, Lukaku is believed to be weighing two significant options for his future: AC Milan, a choice he is reportedly dismissing for the time being, and Al Hilal, which has dangled a tempting three-year contract valued at €30m per season.
Despite complications at Inter, Lukaku, a former Manchester United player, is eager to return. However, he requires definitive signs of commitment. In essence, he seeks the same level of dedication from Inter to retain him as he displayed when he returned to the club a year ago. Otherwise, he remains open to exploring alternatives, with a preference to remain within European boundaries. Meanwhile, Milan remains resolute in their quest to acquire him.
Lukaku, who racked up 14 goals and seven assists during his loan stint at Inter Milan last season and clinched the Coppa Italia, has snubbed an offer from Saudi Arabia, cementing his resolve to continue his career in Europe.
EXCLUSIVE: Lukaku’s lawyer Sebastien Ledure ️
◉ “No talks ongoing with AC Milan”.
◉ “Romelu wants to stay in Europe; confirmed this by not joining Saudi now”.
◉ “Chelsea position: interested clubs have to present a firm offer”.
◉ “Inter have the ball in their court”. pic.twitter.com/Zq8cT1sZb2 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 22, 2023
The footballer's attorney, while speaking to journalist Fabrizio Romano, reiterated Lukaku's position amidst Chelsea's attempts to offload him in the current January transfer window. Inter's president, Steven Zhang, emphasized the striker's affection for Inter, indicating that future discussions with Chelsea would clarify his path forward.
Lukaku, who transitioned to Chelsea from Inter in 2021, witnessed a diminishing rapport with former coach Thomas Tuchel, culminating in his loan to Inter for the ongoing season.
