Aston Villa has reportedly reached a 'total agreement' to sign Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku. This unexpected development comes as the Champions League qualifiers seek a new centre-forward and have also shown interest in Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Lukaku, who is currently training alone, is awaiting a move from Chelsea. His departure from West London seems inevitable following two successful loan spells away from Stamford Bridge since his return to the club in 2021. These stints with Inter and Roma have seen his stock rise significantly in Serie A, making it his preferred destination.
Conte worried as Lukaku eyes Italian return
Despite Aston Villa’s interest, reports suggest that Birmingham is not part of Lukaku’s plans. The Belgian international - who currently earns £325,000-a-week - was set to reunite with former Inter manager Antonio Conte at Napoli. Having found fine form during Conte's tenure between 2019 and 2021 and now finding himself an outcast at Chelsea, Naples appears an ideal destination for him.
There were rumours of a possible swap deal involving Lukaku between Chelsea and Napoli which would also involve Victor Osimhen and cash considerations. However, this was refuted by Osimhen’s agent Roberto Calenda leaving Lukaku still waiting for his future to be sorted out.
Recent updates indicate that Unai Emery's Aston Villa are now involved with reports suggesting that they have reached ‘total agreement’ over a fee for the striker with Chelsea. Despite this development though, it seems that while Chelsea are pushing for this deal; the Belgian forward prefers moving to Napoli instead. This situation has left both parties anxious: Chelsea are running out of patience while Antonio Conte at Napoli is ‘worried’. Conte is keen to sign Lukaku as soon as possible but Osimhen’s potential exit is complicating the move.
Aston Villa desperate for a striker
This week's transfer speculation has shed light on Aston Villa's offensive plans. While Jhon Duran looks set for a move to West Ham, Villa are keen on bolstering their attacking depth with a commanding forward player. Lukaku fits this profile perfectly.
However, Unai Emery's side have also shown interest in Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Frenchman had an impressive end to last season's Premier League campaign, scoring 14 of his 16 league goals in the final 16 matches.
The interest in both players - known for their strength, quality build-up play and strike rate - indicates Emery’s potentially direct approach as his side prepare for both the Premier League and Champions League matches. While Aston Villa seems ready to welcome Romelu Lukaku into their fold; it remains uncertain whether they will be able to convince him to join them instead of Napoli.
