Inter striker Romelu Lukaku was close to signing for Juventus from Manchester United instead of the Nerazzurri, according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

The Belgium international played a starring role as Inter thrashed AC Milan 3-0 in the Derby della Madonnina today, netting the third goal to send his side four points clear at the top of the Serie A table.

Speaking to Italian television channel Sky Sport Italia, Di Marzio pondered how Lukaku would have played had he joined Juventus instead of Inter in 2019, revealing that a deal was in place but collapsed due to Bianconeri forward Paulo Dybala being unable to reach a deal with Manchester United.

“Imagine what kind of impact Lukaku would have had on Serie A had he joined Juventus, if had gone there in exchange for Dybala,” Di Marzio stated.

“The board at Juventus were ready to make the deal happen by Dybala couldn’t find an agreement with Manchester United over wages.

“But if it had happened, there would be no prospect of Lukaku to Inter. It was an exchange of Dybala for Lukaku.”

Di Marzio then turned his attention to Nerazzurri midfielder Christian Eriksen, who continued his good recent form with a fine display against Milan.

“He is a rediscovered protagonist. Today in the most important match of the season he played in the central role, always with clarity and with the right ideas.

“Even when he was substituted he was still smiling. Maybe he has changed in his approach with Antonio Conte, but he seems like a new player,” Di Marzio concluded.

Denmark international Eriksen has scored five goals in 46 appearances for Inter since joining from Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur in January 2020.