According to Il Messaggero (subscription required), as cited by Leeds Live, Leeds United have enquired about signing Jordan Lukaku this summer. The Whites, it seems, have expressed an interest in the Lazio fullback, who has struggled under Simone Inzaghi. Lukaku is believed to be valued at around £3.6 million and could be a cost-effective option in the club’s bid to bolster their defensive unit.
Lukaku’s Struggles At Lazio
Lukaku has been a part of the Lazio team since 2016, and he even enjoyed early success at the club, emerging as one of the league’s most promising fullbacks. The 26-year-old also won multiple call-ups to the Belgian national team.
However, in recent years, Lukaku has endured a massive downfall, particularly due to a knee injury that has marred his progress at Lazio. In fact, the left-back has combined just over 500 minutes of league football over the past couple of seasons.
Moreover, Lukaku has also found it challenging to compete with the likes of Senad Lulic and Jony on the left flank, with manager Inzaghi primarily preferring a three-man backline with two wing-backs. Hence, a move away from Lazio seems like the best option for the younger of the Lukaku brothers this summer.
What Can He Bring To The Table?
Lukaku is mainly renowned for his athleticism. He can effortlessly move up and down the pitch, covering the entirety of the left flank. It also makes him quite useful in the press, with his tenacity enabling him to win back possession for his side.
Much like his elder brother, Jordan is quite strong on the physical aspect of the game. He can easily outmuscle most wingers, which is combined with sheer pace.
However, what makes the 26-year-old such an appealing prospect is that unlike most modern-day fullbacks, Lukaku is often aware of his defensive chores. He can keep up with his markers while his pace allows him to recover ground quickly.
Should Leeds Make A Move?
The left-back is one of the positions Leeds United need reinforcements this summer, especially with Barry Douglas facing an uncertain future at the club. Lukaku could be an ideal pick, given his all-round qualities on the left flank.
Especially if we consider his physical traits, Lukaku is a natural fit in the Premier League. Besides, his willingness to win back possession should bode well for Marcelo Bielsa’s tactical setup at Elland Road.
The Belgian could, in fact, be a perfect competitor to Stuart Dallas while his experience at the highest level of football could be useful. Also, the ex-Anderlecht starlet can even feature in a more attacking role, thus providing Bielsa with additional tactical choices at his disposal.
More importantly, it is Lukaku’s £3.6 million price-tag that could make him a bargain for Leeds United, especially at a time when most of the European football clubs are facing a financial crisis due to Coronavirus.
