As far as Het Belang van Limburg are concerned, the summer transfer window is going to have a Belgian flavour.
On Thursday, HBVL say: ‘Do not doubt: Over the next few months, the transfer news will be dominated by Romelu Lukaku, Dries Mertens, Thomas Vermaelen and Youri Tielemans.’
As far as Lukaku goes, that’s no surprise. The Everton striker has repeatedly spoken of his desire to play in the Champions League and has made it clear he’s not super keen to sign a new contract.
The problem for Lukaku, believe HBVL, is destination. Whilst he’s ‘dreaming’ of a return to Chelsea, the Belgian newspaper believe Antonio Conte prefers Alvaro Morata.
Therefore, such is Lukaku’s eagerness to join a perceived bigger club than Everton, he’s willing to ‘take the risk’. That’s put himself out there and hope a club pays €50m. The €50m is HBVL’s figure, Everton would almost certainly require a lot more.
It’s a fair point made by HBVL, Lukaku’s possible destinations are limited. If Chelsea or Manchester United don’t swoop, a move from Everton within the PL will be difficult. Outside of England, the number of clubs willing and able to match the potential fee is also very limited.
