Chelsea manager Graham Potter is looking to initiate talks with Romelu Lukaku over the possibility of the Belgian returning to Stamford Bridge upon the conclusion of his loan at Inter Milan and leading the line for the Blues once again next season.
What’s the word?
That is according to Dean Jones, who has spoken of Potter’s desire to bring the 29-year-old back to Stamford Bridge.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the journalist said: “I’m told Potter would love to speak to Lukaku about how he sees the future opening up, but I would be surprised if he comes back. He loves Italy and it’s probably a good place to settle now.”
Potter wants Lukaku
Having returned to Stamford Bridge in a sensational £97.5m deal last summer, the Belgian failed to deliver the desired impact, which was also hindered by some of his behaviour off the pitch.
Despite arriving at Chelsea off the back of a sensational 2020/21 Serie A campaign in which he registered 24 goals and 11 assists in 36 appearances, Lukaku was unable to repeat that form upon his return to the Premier League, scoring just eight times for the Blues.
However, it should be acknowledged that his goal returns were hindered by a lack of trust and opportunities from then-Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel, who handed him only 16 top-flight starts and a further 10 appearances off the bench.
You get the impression that Lukaku could shine under the tutelage of the tactically innovative Graham Potter, who has been victim to his fair share of the so-called xG nightmare at Brighton – illustrating his ability to set his team up to create chances, but lacking the firepower up front to convert those into goals.
If the 6 foot 4 Lukaku – dubbed a “beast” by Antonio Rudiger – is up to it, he could thrive on amy lifeline handed to him by by current Chelsea boss, who could offer the Belgian the support that he needs through his unique man management style which sees him individually get to know his players on a personal level, before looking to get the best out of them on the pitch.
