Manchester United eyeing Romelu Lukaku as an alternative to Joshua Zirkzee | OneFootball

Manchester United are considering Romelu Lukaku as a backup option if their pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee falls through.

Journalist Mauricio Russo (Calcio Mercato) tweeted, “ManchesterUnited is ahead of Ac Milan in Joshua Zirkzee deal. One of the Red Devils’ plan B, if they can’t reach Bologna’s striker, leads to a sensational Romelu Lukaku‘s comeback from Chelsea.”

Lukaku has expressed a strong desire to return to Serie A, ruling out a move to Saudi Arabia despite lucrative offers.

His preference to remain in the top European leagues stems from his belief that, at 31, he is still in peak physical condition and capable of performing at a high level in Serie A.

This sentiment was reiterated during a recent meeting with his entourage, as reported by Sky.

Meanwhile, AC Milan is strategising to bring Lukaku back to Italy, particularly given their uncertainty around securing their primary target, Joshua Zirkzee.

Milan’s management is exploring the possibility of acquiring Lukaku on loan from Chelsea or through a transfer deal capped at €22 million.

The Rossoneri have already enjoyed successful dealings with Chelsea, acquiring Christian Pulisic and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and hope to leverage this relationship further.

Lukaku’s situation is complicated by his affinity for Antonio Conte, with whom he enjoyed a successful spell at Inter Milan.

Conte, now at Napoli, could potentially offer Lukaku a chance to replicate or surpass his previous season’s success, where he netted 21 goals for Roma.

However, Napoli’s ability to move for Lukaku hinges on the sale of Victor Osimhen, delaying any potential negotiations.

From United’s perspective, the interest in Lukaku comes as they search for reinforcements to their attacking options.

With Milan’s pursuit of Zirkzee not guaranteed, United could capitalize on the uncertainty surrounding Lukaku’s future.

Bringing Lukaku back to Old Trafford would not only strengthen their attacking depth but also provide a proven goal-scorer with Premier League experience.

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