Chelsea could re-sign former striker as Haaland alternative

Despite the transfer links to Haaland, the Blues could instead be prepared to spend big on righting a wrong this summer.

Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku could reportedly make a surprise return to Chelsea as an alternative for Erling Haaland.

Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has enjoyed a smooth start at Stamford Bridge, having embarked on a 14-match unbeaten run. Only 0.14 goals-per-match has been conceded, with Chelsea keeping an impressive 12 clean sheets.

But while things are going strong on the defensive side of the game, Chelsea still seem a little short on firepower. Therefore, Erling Haaland has emerged as a top summer transfer target in recent weeks.

The six-time English champions, though, can expect competition. Haaland’s goal-laden performances for Borussia Dortmund have not gone unnoticed. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United, and Manchester City are all linked with a move for the Norwegian.

Chelsea could, therefore, consider a bid to re-sign former striker Lukaku according to The Telegraph. The Inter star is allegedly high up on their list of alternatives should they fail to sign Haaland this summer.

Italian outlet Calcio Mercato, meanwhile, has claimed Manchester City and Barcelona are also keen on Lukaku. Inter, however, don’t have any immediate plans to sell their star striker so far.

Chelsea are linked to both Erling Haaland & Romelu Lukaku. Which striker of these 2 would you prefer? pic.twitter.com/t4pGqCCI8n

— Frank Khalid (@FrankKhalidUK) March 26, 2021

What happened during Lukaku’s first spell at Chelsea?

Lukaku is a classic example of a Blues reject who made it big elsewhere.

The Belgian joined Chelsea in 2011 as an 18-year-old from Anderlecht in a €15m deal. He was pre-billed as Didier Drogba’s long-term successor, but made only 15 appearances for the first-team.

Despite impressive loan spells at West Brom and Everton, then-Blues boss Jose Mourinho sold Lukaku to the latter club for €35.36m in 2014.

The Portuguese coach ironically re-signed Lukaku for Manchester United three years later for €84.70m. The 27-year-old has since linked up with former Chelsea coach Antonio Conte at Inter Milan and is firing in the goals in Serie A.

In fact, Lukaku has been tipped as an early frontrunner for the 2021 Ballon d’Or in light of his brilliant form this season.