Roma is reportedly interested in acquiring the Belgian star Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea, with the club willing to sell him for £37 million. Chelsea aims to part ways with Lukaku in the upcoming summer transfer window, and Roma is looking to turn his loan move into a permanent one. Despite Lukaku’s recent impressive performance, scoring nine goals in 14 games and four for Belgium in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Azerbaijan, Chelsea is adamant about the sale, setting a price tag of £37 million. However, for the deal to proceed, Lukaku must agree to a substantial pay cut, as he currently holds the position of the highest earner at Chelsea.
Roma’s manager, Jose Mourinho, desires Lukaku’s permanent departure, though the duration of his stay at the club remains uncertain. Saudi Arabian clubs have shown interest in signing Lukaku when his contract with Roma expires, having attempted to secure him last summer with a £104 million-a-year offer. Antonio Conte is a potential replacement, given his close relationship with Lukaku from their time together at Inter.
The success of Roma’s bid for European qualification and the potential sale of Tammy Abraham could influence the Lukaku deal, as funds are needed to finalize the transfer. Abraham, who has been sidelined with a knee injury, might be sold if he doesn’t contribute goals, creating space for Lukaku.
While Juventus has previously shown interest in Lukaku, AC Milan is also monitoring the situation. Despite other clubs’ interest, Lukaku, still Chelsea’s highest-paid player, might need to accept a salary reduction from his current £325,000-a-week to facilitate a move to Serie A.
