Newcastle United linked with shock move for Chelsea star

Reports in Italy have suggested Newcastle United will make an unlikely move for Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku - if the Magpies qualify for the Champions League.

The Belgium international is currently on a season-long loan at Serie A club Inter Milan after struggling to make a serious impact during his second spell at Stamford Bridge. After originally joining the Blues from Anderlecht in 2011, Lukaku had promising loan spells with West Bromwich Albion and Everton, joining the latter in a permanent move in July 2014.

A big money switch to Manchester United three years later proved underwhelming for the powerful frontman but he found serious form in Serie A after joining Inter for around £70m in the summer of 2019. An impressive return of 64 goals in 95 appearances helped Inter land their first Serie A title in over a decade before he moved back to Chelsea for in a reported £97.5m deal in August 2021.

His first season back at Stamford Bridge ended with just 15 goals in 44 appearances and The Blues opted to send the striker back on loan to Inter last summer. However, injuries have hampered his second spell at the San Siro and Lukaku had netted just two goals in five appearances in all competitions ahead of the World Cup break.

Italian outlet CalcioMercato have now claimed Newcastle believe Lukaku has ‘the right profile’ for the club and will make a move if they can secure a top four finish this season. Inter are said to be keen to retain the striker but their financial issues mean they will only be able to offer Chelsea a second loan deal for the 29-year-old.

The report states Newcastle would ‘have no problem closing the negotiation’ and would be able to meet Chelsea and Lukaku’s demands to force through what would be a shock deal.