In a statement to Belgian media, Everton striker Romelu Lukaku said that he has already decided on which team to join this summer. Though Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, Juventus, and Bayern Munich are all interested in the forward, it’s Chelsea who seem to be emerging as the favourites to re-sign him. Though Everton is yet to agree to their star striker’s transfer, it was reported that they have accepted his demand to leave the club.
The player had demanded a move as he wanted to play for a team that competes for European football regularly and Everton would be looking for a deal of at least £65million. Chelsea, along with a handful of other clubs have enquired about the 23-year-old with his representatives Mino Raiola and have had him in their shortlist for quite some time now.
“In my mind, I've already taken a decision about my future. We will see. I keep it for me. A lot of clubs are interested, some of which are already very concrete for five years,” he said.
When pushed about the possibility of re-joining Chelsea, he said: “We'll see,” raising the speculations further. According to his father, Lukaku is likely to complete a transfer before the start of Euro 2016.
Also read: Romelu Lukaku wants a return to Chelsea
Regardless of the teasing and the possibly resurrected dreams of Lukaku leading the line at Chelsea, his price tag remains extremely high considering the London-based club's actual needs at the position, which would largely be determined by whether Diego Costa is staying or not. In case of Costa staying, Chelsea could look to spend the £60m elsewhere in the team, although it is highly unlikely.
The 23-year-old also said that the English competition suited him perfectly but that there are other ‘beautiful’ clubs to play for as well. He stated that his recent weeks at Everton were difficult as the performances of his teammates were a key factor in the decline he faced.
He added that in spite of this, he had continued to work hard and is now mentally ready to start the Euro for Belgium.
Though he failed to score in the last 10 matches for Everton, Lukaku had a remarkable season with 25 goals and 6 assists to his name at an average of 3.2 shots per game. He was also awarded the man of the match in 4 games this season.
