Transfer Tussle: Inter and Juventus Lock Horns over Crucial Striker
Lukaku is set to leave Chelsea this summer. (Image: Antonio Calanni/Associated Press)
The future of Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku remains uncertain as Inter and Juventus battle it out to secure his services. As the negotiations heat up, both clubs are putting forward enticing offers to sway Lukaku's decision.
Lukaku spent last season on loan at Inter Milan from Chelsea. Simone Inzaghi’s side has made a final bid of $39.3 million to Chelsea, with an additional $5.6 million in potential add-ons. However, the Nerazzurri are still awaiting a response from the Blues regarding their proposal. The Italian giants are keen to keep hold of the 30-year-old, who has been an integral part of their success in recent seasons.
On the other hand, Juventus has entered the race with an offer of $42 million, along with an additional $2.8 million in potential add-ons. However, there is a significant condition attached to their bid. The proposal from the Bianconeri is contingent on the sale of their promising young striker, Dusan Vlahović. Should Vlahović be sold, Juventus' bid for Lukaku becomes valid.
Amid the ongoing negotiations, Lukaku himself has been actively involved in discussions with Juventus. While this development has excited the Turin-based club, it has raised concerns within Inter Milan. The Nerazzurri hierarchy is reportedly displeased with Lukaku's engagement with their Serie A rivals, potentially complicating matters further.
Lukaku had a tumultuous 2022-23 season, seeing most of his appearances come off the bench for Inter Milan due to injuries and loss of form. However, he was integral to Inzaghi’s side during the final stretch of the season, as Inter reached the finals of the UEFA Champions League and finished third in the Serie A. He ended his domestic season with 10 goals in 19 starts for the Nerazzurri.
The race to secure Lukaku's signature remains fiercely contested, with both Inter Milan and Juventus vying for his services. The coming days will prove crucial in determining the outcome of this transfer saga.