AC Milan, after losing out on Marcus Thuram who is set to join Inter, are looking for alternatives in the market. Chelsea's Romelu Lukaku is among the players wanted by the club. It was not a disruptive move only by AC Milan for the Belgian striker. The Rossoneri are reportedly serious about signing him.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, talks were held with Chelsea, and not just with the attacker's entourage. In addition to words, they have also made a genuine effort to try to purchase the former Manchester United centre-forward. He is a target for Pioli's team. In some ways, it is surprising, considering the type of player acquisition policy that is followed. But sometimes market dynamics lead to unexpected developments. And why not mention city rivalry as well: the Thuram case, after all, teaches us just that. Snatching one of the symbol players from their cousins can be provocative, well beyond the purely technical aspect. Although the technical aspect is also central, especially now with the need for an offensive move after losing Thuram.
AC Milan making moves for Lukaku...
Certainly, Inter is now somehow cornered regarding Lukaku. Zhang's executives have once again realized that another loan for the striker will not be possible. The message has been strong and clear from Chelsea to Lukaku's entourage, particularly to Sebastien Ledure, the lawyer who closely follows the Belgian and was the absolute protagonist of last year's negotiation for Romelu's return to Inter. Whoever wants the Belgian must acquire him permanently. And the amount is known: 40 million euros. For the Blues, in any case, this would mean a substantial loss, considering that the player is still valued at 68 million on the books. But that's how it is.
According to the source, Lukaku has two concrete options for his future now: either join AC Milan, or go to Saudi Arabia, specifically Al Hilal, who have offered him a three-year deal with a net salary of 30 million euros per season. It is an endless pressure, which started in the immediate hours following the Champions League final in Istanbul with a meeting at the George V hotel in Paris. And it has been reiterated in the last few hours as well. Al Hilal does not give up, despite Lukaku's refusals. However, the last refusal is said to have been less categorical than the previous ones. Because Lukaku knows that his stay at Inter is now complicated. Marotta and Ausilio are not desperate, they will make more attempts. It is not a story that will be resolved quickly, certainly. And who knows, maybe the passing days will work in Zhang's favor, as he still wants to leverage Romelu's desire. But this time, Chelsea seems very firm. And unlike the past, the Blues have two concrete options in their hands to recoup part of the 113 million euros they spent just two summers ago.
There is another aspect to consider. Lukaku certainly has a desire for Inter; he can't see himself in any way wearing the Rossoneri jersey. But at the same time, he would like to see a concrete signal from the Nerazzurri, a strong move and not just loan proposals that London can no longer accept. In short, he would like Inter to demonstrate the same willingness to keep him as he showed 12 months ago to return to Milan. Otherwise, he is ready to consider other options. His priority is Inter, but secondarily, he still wants to play in Europe and preferably not in the Premier League, a tournament he no longer wants to set foot in. The paths of the transfer market are endless and unpredictable. That's why Inter still hopes to keep him. But as they say, out of sight, out of mind. So, if Lukaku doesn't continue in Nerazzurro, Zhang and his men wouldn't be too disappointed to see him in Saudi Arabia. At least not as an opponent. Especially not in a derby.
