What’s the story?
Jose Mourinho has set his sights on prolific Everton striker Romelu Lukaku as he looks to bolster his attack for next season. According the to the Express, the United boss is willing to offer as much as £70 million to secure the services of the young Belgian.
The Express have also reported that the Portuguese is still looking to sign Antonie Griezmann from Atletico Madrid.
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Lukaku has been in scintillating form for Everton this season, amassing 21 goals in just 28 appearances in the league. He leads the goal-scorers chart and has been instrumental in the Toffees’ push for a European spot, contributing six assists in the process.
Lukaku recently refused to sign a new contract with Everton, citing the need for Champions League football while also questioning the club’s lack of ambition. “If you don’t win a trophy there is something that has gone wrong because if you have the belief that you can do something, you can do it. Nothing is going to stop you,” Lukaku stated.
“At the end of the day fans want to see trophies, players want trophies so we need to try more, give a bit more. That is the only thing I would say.”
The heart of the matter
Interestingly enough, it was Mourinho who sold the 23-year-old to Everton in the first place when he held the reins at Chelsea. However, taking into account the Belgian’s spectacular displays in the Premier League, the Portuguese manager has now identified him as his prime target.
Also read: Five clubs who should target Romelu Lukaku in the summer
Lukaku’s former club, Chelsea are also interested in the 23-year-old and are willing to offer wantaway striker Michy Batshuayi to sweeten the deal.
Meanwhile, Griezmann, who has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford could also make a switch in the summer to join his French teammate and close friend Paul Pogba at the Theatre of Dreams.
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Author’s Take
Lukaku deserves to play for a top quality club and Manchester United certainly fit the bill. With the service he will be provided at Old Trafford it will not be surprising to see him possibly break the 30-goal barrier in his first season itself. Alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic – if he signs an extension – the duo could lead United to their first Premier League title since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.
