Despite investing heavily in attacking players last summer, Chelsea’s search for a striker is likely to be a major talking point for the next few months.
Thomas Tuchel has done exceptionally well to get his side scoring again since his appointment, but because of Timo Werner’s lack of Premier League goals, and the uncertainty surrounding the futures of other attacking talent, there’s no surprise that the German is looking to find himself a new target man in the upcoming window.
One of the names linked with a return to the Premier League is Serie A champion, and of course former Blue, Romelu Lukaku.
So what's the latest on a potential move for the frontman?
Potential outgoings
Tuchel will be involved in player recruitment this summer, and it is rumoured he will be willing to let both of the out-and-out strikers he has on his books go. 23-year-old academy graduate, Tammy Abraham, has been restricted of Premier League minutes since his new manager arrived, and the club are reportedly willing to listen to offers for him.
Meanwhile, there is still uncertainty over Olivier Giroud’s future as there’s limited time left on the Frenchman’s contract.
It is obvious why Lukaku is being linked with a West London reunion, but what has he had to say on the matter?
Lukaku breaks silence on transfer speculation
With a deal for Borussia Dortmund star and top-target Erling Haaland unlikely, especially after Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke confirmed the Norwegian will remain in the Bundesliga this summer, there were reports by the Daily Mail that Lukaku could be available for around £105million.
However, when questioned about his future after Inter secured their first Serie A title since 2010 on Sunday, the Belgian said: “I’m really proud to be an Inter player. I’ve a special feeling with this club, that’s why I decided to celebrate around the city today with our fans."
Now that he has mentioned how ‘proud’ he is to play for his club, it seems unlikely that he will leave so soon after achieving something so big.
Alternative options
In recent weeks, the Blues have been linked with a number of top strikers across Europe, including the likes of Lukaku and Haaland.
Another striker who could be on Chelsea’s radar is Sergio Aguero. The Manchester City club record goal scorer is leaving the Etihad Stadium when his contract expires and he will be available to any potential suitor on a free transfer.
Although his wages won’t come cheap, his reputation as one of the Premier League’s greatest ever will certainly be of interest.
They could also turn to Harry Kane or Robert Lewandowski, but the two will likely cost in excess of the £150million mark, and given that Kane currently plays for rival outfit Spurs, Chelsea may find it difficult to even approach him.
