RUMOURS Manchester United ‘confident’ of signing Romelu Lukaku despite striker preferring Chelsea transfer By Raj Mahil Romelu Lukaku reportedly wants to join Chelsea this summer, but Manchester United’s strong relationship with Mino Raiola could prove key to a deal. Everton’s No.10 has been widely linked with a transfer in recent weeks, particularly after Diego Costa confirmed he would be leaving Chelsea this summer. A return to Stamford Bridge looked a suitable option for Lukaku, but widespread reports on Thursday suggested that United and the Toffees had struck a £75m agreement. However, it appears that the Blues matched the bid within 24 hours. According to the Telegraph, Lukaku has now been left to decide on his destination. The source claims that United are ‘confident’ of completing the transfer as Chelsea are unwilling to meet Raiola’s fees as the agent – but the free-scoring centre-forward is keen on joining Antonio Conte’s side. Raiola has forged an exceptional relationship with United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward over the last year, having taken Paul Pogba, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mhitaryan to Old Trafford. How did Lukaku compare to Costa and Ibrahimovic in the Premier League last season? Goals – Lukaku led the first-choice strikers of Chelsea and United, respectively, with his 25 goals. Even based on strike rate per 90 minutes, the 24-year-old led (0.69). Chances created – Ibrahimovic was the best of the trio in regards to making opportunities for teammates, though, with an average of 1.70. Aerial duels – The Belgium international was back on top with his dominance in the air, as his rate of 3.53 headers won edged Ibrahimovic (3.10) and dwarfed Costa (1.08). Romelu Lukaku had the best Squawka Performance Score (940) of any Everton player in the Premier League last season.

Comments

Popular