Manchester United eyeing Frankfurt forward as Lukaku replacement
Romelu Lukaku could be on his way to Inter Milan, and Manchester United is considering a move for Sebastien Haller according to ESPN.
Lukaku’s second season at Old Trafford has been a very underwhelming one. He scored only 12 goals in the Premier League, a disappointing return for a striker of his quality.
Marcus Rashford has now become first choice for Ole Gunnar Solskjær ahead of the 26-year-old Belgian, prompting rumors that he could be on his way out of the club.
More from Manchester United
- Four forwards Manchester United might like to replace Cristiano Ronaldo
- Cristiano Ronaldo hits out at Manchester United
- Aston Villa vs. Man United: How Erik ten Hag can replace Bruno Fernandes
- Real Sociedad 0-1 Manchester United: Three talking points
- A few pointers to the Cristiano Ronaldo issue at Manchester United
Antonio Conte has long been an admirer of Lukaku. When he was Chelsea’s manager in 2017, the Italian tried very hard to sign him to replace Diego Costa, but had to settle for Alvaro Morata.
Conte was appointed by Inter Milan to replace Luciano Spalletti a week ago, and he’s now keen to try to sign Lukaku again. Inter will, however, have to match United’s exorbitant asking price of £80 million.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s Sebastien Haller is very similar to Lukaku in many ways, and could be a great replacement for him. The 24-year-old scored 15 goals and provided 9 assists for a team that finished 7th in the Bundesliga this season.
Haller is an imposing figure at 6’3″, and is extremely physical. He’s excellent at holding the ball up for his teammates (something that Lukaku excelled at for Everton, but has seemed to have forgotten at United).
His decision-making is also brilliant, as is evident from his impressive numbers.
The transfer of Luka Jovic to Real Madrid for €60 million, however, might complicate things. Frankfurt have already lost one world-class forward this summer and will not want to lose another, which could drive the price up.
Meanwhile, United are reportedly in talks to sign Leicester City’s James Maddison. The 22-year-old midfielder could cost £60 million, and would be a replacement for Paul Pogba who is also wanted by Real.
Next. Kylian Mbappe set to leave Paris Saint-Germain. dark
A central defender will also be a priority, after the Red Devils’ horrendous defensive display throughout this season. Matthijs de Ligt has been linked, but there seems to be little progress in the deal.