Chelsea have their focus set on five potential replacements for Romelu Lukaku this summer, according to reports. It comes after a disappointing season for the Belgian upon his return to Stamford Bridge.
In a move that cost roughly £100million, expectations were high for the striker after his stint in Serie A. However, he managed just eight goals and one assist in 26 Premier League appearances.
Despite that, manager Thomas Tuchel urged for more patience for the 29-year-old: “I still believe that he will [score goals] because he always did, we need more patience than maybe we all have and wanted with this signing.
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"We demand a lot from our strikers also in terms of intensity. There are several reasons why things are like this [a lack of goals] and we are on it."
However, that faith may have broken down since, with reports claiming that Lukaku is set for an Inter Milan return this summer. The deal is set to be a loan, with his wage covered and with a fee on top.
This would leave the Blues with fewer options for a main, goalscoring centre-forward. However, the Daily Mail claims that work is already being done to prepare for that, with five options named.
The report states that Robert Lewandowski, Richarlison, Jonathan David, Victor Osimhen and Gianluca Scamacca are all of interest to the club. All of those names have also been linked with other clubs, opening up the possibility of several transfer battles at once.
With Todd Boehly set to handle negotiations, there may still be some twists to come, though.
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