Manchester United are reportedly pondering a shocking move for Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku if they fail to sign Joshua Zirkzee, according to Calciomercato.
United are in the market for a new striker and Zirkzee remains their primary target but they’ve already begun making contingency plans incase the Dutchman’s transfer falls through.
United manager Erik ten Hag recently held talks with the representatives of the Bologna striker and the player himself, emphasising his desire to work with the former Bayern Munich ace at Old Trafford.
The 23-year-old has a £34 million release clause in his contract with the Serie A side valid until mid-August, which United have expressed a willingness to trigger.
United also have no problems meeting his agents’ £13m demands in compensation but Zirkzee has yet to give the Red Devils the green light to proceed with negotiations.
The Netherlands international reportedly favours a move to AC Milan, but the seven-time European champions have refused to accept his agent’s demands, making a deal unlikely.
Arsenal and Juventus have also expressed interest in Zirkzee, but United are in pole position to sign him.
However, if they fail to close a deal for the Dutchman, report from Italy suggests that United would consider bringing Lukaku back to Old Trafford.
The Belgium international striker spent last season on loan at AS Roma, bagging 21 goals and four assists in 47 games across all competitions.
Roma opted against making his move permanent but Chelsea are desperate to get him off their books and will welcome offers of around £37m for the Belgian.
Saudi Arabia has been touted as a likely destination although Napoli have shown an interest, with new manager Antonio Conte describing Lukaku as a “top player”.
Any move for Lukaku will likely spark unrest amongst the United fanbase, considering his unceremonial departure from Old Trafford last time out.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
