Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku is reportedly eyeing a return to the Premier League, and Aston Villa have emerged as the surprise favourites to secure his signature.
The 29-year-old is currently on loan at Inter Milan from Chelsea, but he is said to be keen on moving back to England this summer.
According to Spanish news outlet Todo Fichajes, Aston Villa will make a move for the prolific forward when the transfer window reopens.
Romelu Lukaku is linked to a SHOCK summer move to Aston Villa once his loan deal with Inter Milan is over.
— 365Scores (@365Scores) March 20, 2023
Would this be the right step for the Belgian striker? #AstonVilla #Chelsea #EPL #365Scores pic.twitter.com/0qiKdreBx5
Lukaku has had many injury struggles for Inter this season, only scoring 3 goals in 15 Serie A appearances, a direct contrast compared to his 2020-21 season with the Nerazzurri.
Despite his success in Italy, Lukaku’s future at Inter remains uncertain, as the club is struggling to balance their finances.
Inter are unable to afford his wages on a permanent basis, and this could pave the way for Lukaku’s return to the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Lukaku’s former club Chelsea, who signed him from Everton in 2017 for a then club-record fee of £97.5 million, are reportedly not keen on bringing him back.
The London club has a wealth of attacking options, and they may choose to focus their resources on other areas of the squad.
Lukaku’s experience and goal-scoring prowess would undoubtedly elevate Villa’s attack to the next level and potentially push them towards a European qualification spot next season.
However, it remains to be seen if Villa can match Lukaku’s wage demands, which are believed to be among the highest in European football.
Aston Villa are currently sat 11th in the Premier League table on 38 points, level with Lukaku’s parent club, Chelsea.
