A big sale for Chelsea? Blues may finally offload Romelu Lukaku as Saudi Arabian clubs eager to sign striker after Roma loan ends

Posted Friday, March 29, 2024 by Goal.com

Chelsea might finally offload Romelu Lukaku as Saudi Arabian clubs have reportedly shown interest in him after his Roma loan spell.

Lukaku on loan spell at Roma
Chelsea keen to sell the striker
Saudi sides eager to get him

WHAT HAPPENED?

Chelsea have set a price tag of around €43 million (£37m/$46m) for the 30-year-old striker, a fee that could attract interest from Saudi sides who are willing to match the amount, according to Gazzetta. Roma have made it clear that they can afford to meet Chelsea's demand only if they qualify for the Champions League next season. Moreover, the potential return of Tammy Abraham to match fitness is also one of the factors behind their decline in interest.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The report also mentions that Roma are eyeing a move for Paris Saint-Germain's Hugo Ekitike who is expected to be a cheaper option. The Giallorossi have a robust working relationship with PSG and have been involved in several transfers - including the likes of Leandro Paredes, Georginio Wijnaldum and Renato Sanches - which could help them in their pursuit.

DID YOU KNOW?

Lukaku, who previously rejected a lucrative salary offer of €50 million per season, is now open to the prospect of playing in the Saudi Pro League if it guarantees a permanent departure from Chelsea. This shift in attitude reflects Lukaku's desire for a fresh start away from Stamford Bridge.

WHAT NEXT?

Lukaku's career trajectory has seen a decline since his record-breaking transfer to Chelsea in 2021, with the striker struggling to secure a prominent role in the squad. Despite his lacklustre performances during his loan spell at Inter Milan last season, Lukaku has shown signs of improvement at Roma. Nonetheless, the Blues would be looking to coupe as much money as possible from the sale of Lukaku, who will be back in action against Leece on Monday in a Serie A fixture.