In a recent report, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has revealed that Manchester City are showing interest in recruiting Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan in the summer. It is believed that the Belgian international has been identified as a potential successor to Sergio Aguero by Man City (via The Athletic’s David Ornstein).
Lukaku’s Excellent Form In Italian Football This Season
The 27-year-old has enjoyed a productive season at San Siro after producing a series of match-winning performances as the focal point of Antonio Conte’s attack. Lukaku has appeared in 27 matches for the Italian outfit this term, banging in 20 goals and securing three assists in various competitions.
Lukaku has been consistent with his offensive contributions this season as he is averaging 2.6 shots, 1.2 key passes and 1.7 dribbles per game in the Serie A. However, he has even been a bit untidy with his ball-distribution as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 74.8% in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
The way Lukaku has been playing for Inter of late, it is no wonder that a club of Man City’s size are interested in bringing him back to the Premier League where he has previously thrived playing for Chelsea, Everton and Manchester United respectively.
What Will The Belgian Marksman Add To Pep Guardiola’s Team?
Standing at 1.91m, Lukaku has incredible upper-body strength to overpower the opposition and hold possession up for his teammates. He can also win his fair share of aerial duels for his side and usually packs a lot of venom with his strikes at goal.
The 89-time Belgian international has firmly established himself as one of the most prolific goal-getters in European football. He can even use his strong frame to shield the ball and make some powerful runs in behind the opponent’s backline.
However, Lukaku’s first touch has sometimes let him down in the past. Plus, he also tends to fade in and out of matches, so it remains to be seen how he fits into Guardiola’s style of play at the Etihad Stadium if the Man City boss decides to move in for him during the summer transfer period.
At 27, Lukaku is playing at his prime and could get even better if he can continue to put in the effort on the field. Therefore, it makes sense for Guardiola to take a chance on the experienced Belgian striker as he will be a perfect replacement for Aguero, who is edging closer towards the end of his Man City career.
