Crystal Palace could now try to sign 30-year-old Chelsea star, he once admitted he loves Selhurst Park
Chelsea outcast Romelu Lukaku has emerged as an option for Crystal Palace to sign before deadline day next Friday.
That is according to The Athletic.
So, what is the latest on Romelu Lukaku at Chelsea as Crystal Palace search for a new striker? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, Roy Hodgson is looking for an upgrade on Jean-Philippe Mateta and Odsonne Edouard before the transfer window ends next Friday (September 1st).
The south Londoners are believed to have shortlisted the likes of Che Adams, Kelechi Iheanacho and Folarin Balogun, although Lukaku has now emerged as a surprise option for the Eagles.
Chelsea’s £97.5m man is currently training with the Under-21 side, according to the Telegraph, having failed to even speak to Mauricio Pochettino since the Argentine arrived in west London.
The Athletic believe Chelsea are becoming desperate to get Lukaku’s £340,000-a-week salary off the wage bill, although Crystal Palace cannot afford to cover that sum in full.
However, a loan move – with both sides splitting his wages – could work.
Lukaku seemed set to rejoin Inter Milan before those at the San Siro pulled out of talks – they felt betrayed after learning that the Belgian was also in contact with Juventus.
According to the Evening Standard, Juventus remain in talks and are willing to spend £35m on the 30-year-old, but that is dependent on the Old Lady receiving £50m for Dusan Vlahovic.
Chelsea outcast Lukaku has already praised Crystal Palace
The Athletic suggest Lukaku may not be too keen on a move to Crystal Palace.
While the Belgium international can certainly do better, he has already expressed his admiration for the Eagles before – specifically the atmosphere created at Selhurst Park.
As quoted by Football London in 2021, Lukaku said: “I like Selhurst Park. It’s a nice environment. It’s the only stadium in England like European style. I like it. I’ve scored a few goals there too.”
In that respect, if Lukaku still hasn’t found a new home by next Friday, and Crystal Palace also fail to sign a new striker by that point, a shock move from west London to south London could be on.
