Newcastle United could make an unexpected bid for AS Roma striker Romelu Lukaku next year.
Under Jose Mourinho, the former Manchester United forward has improved his form, scoring nine goals in 15 appearances this season.
According to a report in the Belgian newspaper Voetbalkrant, the Magpies are interested in Lukaku, believing he can be a valuable addition to the squad and provide competition for Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.
After a disappointing second stint at Chelsea in 2021, the 30-year-old is reportedly hesitant to return to England.
Lukaku struggled for goals after joining for a club-record fee of £97.5 million before a shocking interview with Sky Italia in which he expressed his admiration for Inter Milan ruined his relationship with Chelsea fans.
After scoring only 15 goals in 44 appearances for the Blues, he was loaned out to Inter before making another temporary move last summer, this time to Roma.
Following his form in the Italian capital, the Giallorossi are looking to sign Lukaku on a permanent basis, and an offer of around £35 million is thought to be enough to persuade Chelsea to let him go.
However, another party appears to have entered the conversation via Newcastle, who reportedly has a higher bid for the veteran.
Jose Mourinho and Romelu Lukaku have a good relationship, but the Portugueseman’s potential departure next summer could jeopardize his chances of staying.
However, Antonio Conte has been linked as his replacement, and given how successful their previous collaboration at Inter was, Lukaku could stay.
If Lukaku wants to stay in Serie A, he may have to give up some of his £325,000-per-week salary, as few clubs outside of the Premier League can afford such a high salary.
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