In a recent episode of Pressing, a Mediaset program (via fcinter1908.it), it was claimed that Manchester City are eyeing a move for Inter Milan centre-forward Romelu Lukaku this summer. It is believed that Man City could capitalize on the Italian club’s ownership difficulties to lure the Belgian international to the Etihad Stadium at the end of this campaign (transcripted and translated by fcinter1908.it)
Lukaku’s Prolific Goal-Scoring Record In Italian Football This Season
The 27-year-old has experienced another magnificent season at San Siro as he has been a consistent goal-getter as the focal point of Antonio Conte’s attack. Lukaku has netted 27 goals and provided nine assists in 41 matches for the Italian giants this term in multiple competitions.
The former Manchester United centre-forward has performed well to average 2.7 shots, 1.5 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per game in Serie A this season. However, he needs to work on improving his accuracy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half after he made 72.7% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Lukaku has helped Inter win the Serie A title this season, so he could fancy switching clubs in search of a fresh challenge over the next few seasons. At 27, he is still playing at his prime and could serve as a decent long-term successor to Sergio Aguero at the Etihad Stadium.
Should Man City Get Lukaku On Board This Summer?
Lukaku is a powerful runner with the ball at his feet and can make full use of his strong 1.91m frame to outmuscle his marker and score his fair share of goals with his head. The Belgian striker is an accomplished goal-getter in the final third and can also contribute by securing his fair share of assists.
A proven centre-forward like Lukaku would be a great signing for Man City as he will bring plenty of goals and add a physical dimension to their attack. However, he could struggle to adapt to Pep Guardiola’s possession-based playing style at Manchester as his first-touch has often let him down in the past.
The 91-time Belgium international knows the Premier League well from his time at Manchester United, so he won’t have any problem settling into life in English football. Lukaku will also be an upgrade over Gabriel Jesus who has sometimes flattered to deceive with his performances this season. With all things considered, it is only logical for the Mancunian giants to get the Inter star on board when the transfer window commences later this year as he would help them maintain their stranglehold in English football in the years to come.
