Belgian international Romelu Lukaku has been one of the most productive forwards in the Premier League over the past few seasons with Everton. Lukaku has tallied seven league goals in 2016-17 and improves his game with each passing match. The past two seasons have seen the powerful striker score at least 20 goals across all competitions.
Romelu Lukaku and his possible Everton exit in January
After a blistering start to the Premier League campaign, the Toffees and manager Ronald Koeman have struggled recently. One victory in their past six league matches and humiliation at Stamford Bridge last weekend are testing the desire of the squad heading into a busy portion of the schedule.
The upcoming January transfer window approaches and offers clubs around the world the opportunity to improve their squad. Romelu Lukaku is a name that has come up often in regards to a possible move away from Goodison Park, but this week in particular seems to point towards the idea becoming a reality.
Speaking to Dutch newspaper HLN this week, Koeman provided his thoughts on Lukaku’s future in surprising detail. “I think he can emulate Patrick Kluivert, who also rose to prominence at a young age and enjoyed a fantastic career.”
“He eventually played for Barcelona and I can see Lukaku doing the same.”
Koeman went on to say, “Everton should normally not be the end for him. Romelu will not have made the most of his career if he plays for Everton for the remainder of his career.”
Possessing so much talent and at only 23 years of age, Koeman and Everton ownership should be doing all that they can to keep Lukaku in Merseyside. However, the possibility of a massive transfer fee is no doubt part of the equation.
If Lukaku is sold in January, there would be no shortage of suitors for his services that could provide an ideal situation for his career growth and development.
Paris Saint-Germain
Currently sitting third in Ligue 1, Paris Saint-Germain have been vocal about their desire to bring Lukaku to the French capital. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s summer departure has opened up the need for a powerful centre-forward at the top of manager Unai Emery’s 4-3-3 formation.
PSG would be able to afford a hefty transfer fee, pay astronomical wages and provide Lukaku with Champions League football. However, Lukaku may look to stay within the Premier League.
Chelsea
One of the more interesting possible destinations is one of Lukaku’s former clubs. Signing on with Chelsea in the summer of 2011, Lukaku had difficulty gaining playing time and went out on loan twice during his three years under contract.
But with Chelsea in fine form this season and the possibility of Lukaku pairing up with Diego Costa, owner Roman Abramovich may be too tempted to let this opportunity slip away.
A familiar setting and playing with the Premier League’s top scorer is a combination that could lead to tremendous success.
Manchester United
Manchester United and manager Jose Mourinho have not begun the 2016-17 season as they had planned. A record of 5-3-3 has the Red Devils in sixth place and Mourinho will no doubt be searching for January reinforcements.
Few types of signings can bring the influence and immediate impact of an in-form striker. Everton would certainly look for the highest possible fee if Lukaku is sold to any Premier League side.
Barcelona
A former Barcelona player himself, Ronald Koeman’s mention of Romelu Lukaku eventually finding his way to the Camp Nou is an interesting prospect.
Lukaku would benefit greatly from playing with the likes of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez as his skills continue to evolve. Lukaku’s size and strength is a dimension that could be added to an already potent attack.
Finally, the stature of Barcelona in world football would open up a myriad of possibilities for such a young player.
It is wise for Everton to keep Romelu Lukaku in their squad if they intend to challenge for a Champions League spot this season. But with Ronald Koeman’s latest comments and a host of resourceful clubs eager to sign him, January may see the talented striker move on.
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