Chelsea Want Inter Striker Romelu Lukaku As Dortmund’s Erling Haaland Is Too Expensive, US Media Report

Photo: Piero Cruciatti / LaPresse

Inter striker Romelu Lukaku has emerged as the primary transfer target for Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel, ahead of Borussia Dortmund star Erling Haaland.

The Premier League club are in the market for a new forward ahead of the expiry of Olivier Giroud’s contract at the end of the season.

According to Sports Illustrated, Tuchel has identified former Blues striker Lukaku as his ideal striker and believes the Belgium international would suit his style of play.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe is also high on the list of targets after Tuchel worked with him before dismissed by PSG in December, but the Frenchman is thought to favour a move to Real Madrid.

Whilst they have shown interest in Dortmund star Haaland, it is felt that the 20-year-old would be too expensive this summer, particularly as he has a £68 million release clause that comes into effect next year.

Chelsea directors Marina Granovskaia and Petr Cech are set to meet with Tuchel to finalise transfer plans, with Lukaku expected to feature heavily.