Chelsea Transfer News: Romelu Lukaku Contract Eyed by Everton, Latest Rumours

Everton are ready to offer star striker Romelu Lukaku a contract worth £135,000 per week as they seek to stave off interest from Chelsea.

That’s according to Darren Lewis of the Daily Mirror, who stated while the striker would like to return to his former club, his employers have no intention of moving him on this summer. To that end, the Toffees have reportedly put a £75 million valuation on Lukaku.

“The Belgian is particularly keen to work with Chelsea boss Antonio Conte,” Lewis said. “Conte has so far refused to comment on his club’s pursuit but is understood to be confident of landing him.”

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Having left Chelsea to sign for Everton on a permanent deal in 2014, it’d be a remarkable U-turn for the 23-year-old. Former manager Jose Mourinho deemed Lukaku not good enough, although he’s made swift progress at Goodison Park; for a spell last season, he was one of the standout forwards in the Premier League.

Although football journalist Rafael Hernandez has doubts about Lukaku as a player, he conceded the Belgium international does guarantee goals:

Conte would look to harness those predatory instincts and help mould the striker into a force of nature. Lukaku needs to work on his hold-up play, fitness and show more energy at the point of the attack. But those flaws wouldn’t be so accentuated if he had a partner up top, something the Italian has always sought to utilise in his teams.

With the start of the Premier League season looming, it’d be a big risk for Everton to agree to sell Lukaku for whatever price. He may not be the complete striker yet, but proven goalscorers in English football’s top flight are tough to find.

Chelsea Linked with Shkodran Mustafi

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According to Simon Jones of MailOnline, Chelsea will rival Arsenal in the chase for Valencia defender Shkodran Mustafi.

The Blues are said to have “added former Everton defender Mustafi to their list of options as they look to improve their central defensive options.” Jones added that although the Germany international has a release clause of £41 million in his contract, Los Che could be willing to do business for £25 million.

Since leaving Everton in 2012, Mustafi’s career has been on a rapid rise, shining for Sampdoria, Valencia and with his national team. Here is a glimpse at why he’s so highly rated:

For the Blues, centre-back will be an area of concern heading into the season if the position isn’t bolstered. John Terry's agreement to stay at the club was a big boost, but as age catches up with him, the 35-year-old's appearances will surely be limited. Gary Cahill, meanwhile, is a solid, if not elite, operator at the heart of the back four.

Blues fans have pinned plenty of hope on the 21-year-old Kurt Zouma, although it’s clear he needs a classy partner. These numbers from WhoScored.com suggest Mustafi could be the perfect complement:

For £25 million, Mustafi would be a bargain. The centre-back has all the hallmarks of a quality Premier League defender. The German prowls at the base of a team with intent, reading danger quickly and tracking runs with a watchful eye.

In terms of natural defensive skills, few can match Mustafi in La Liga. His willingness to engage in physical battles, challenge in the air and provide dynamism at the back would make him a smart acquisition for Chelsea.