Pochettino set to give Forgotten Chelsea star a chance to prove himself ahead of next season
According to The Telegraph, Mauricio Pochettino, who is set to be named Chelsea manager, will offer Romelu Lukaku the chance to revive his Chelsea career next season.
The report adds: “Romelu Lukaku will be asked whether or not he wants to try to revive his Chelsea career under proposed permanent head coach Mauricio Pochettino as attention turns to which players could thrive with the Argentine at Stamford Bridge.
“Lukaku has spent the season on loan at Inter Milan after making it clear that he no longer wanted to play for former head coach Thomas Tuchel, following a fall-out with the German during his first season back at the club.
“Injuries and a traumatic World Cup experience with Belgium have contributed to Lukaku suffering a difficult season at Inter, which has prompted reports that the Italians will not look to keep him for a second season on loan or try to buy him.
“That represents a potential headache for Chelsea, with Lukaku apparently favouring the prospect of remaining at Inter. But the club will hold talks with the player over his options and have not ruled out the possibility of the Belgian being reintegrated into the first-team squad if he is prepared to try to revive his Chelsea career.
“Tuchel’s successor Graham Potter had already left the door open to the possibility of Lukaku making a summer return and it is unlikely Pochettino would object to such a scenario, given his history of working with all of the players at his disposal.
“Chelsea’s priority this summer is to cut the squad, while only making a few quality additions if it proves possible. The biggest question marks hang over the striker and goalkeeper positions, but Pochettino may feel he can work with Lukaku, should he demonstrate the right desire.”