Romelu Lukaku Won't Sign New Everton Contract According to Ronald Koeman

Everton manager Ronald Koeman has said star striker Romelu Lukaku told him he will not sign a new contract with the club.

Per Goal's Tom Webber, the Dutchman made the revelation on Thursday ahead of Saturday's Premier League match against Burnley, saying: "[Lukaku] told me he won't sign a new contract."

The former Chelsea man has been linked with a return to Stamford Bridge, per the report. Blues legend Didier Drogba has urged the Belgian to return to his former club and live up to the vast expectations that followed him there during his first stint.

Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images

Lukaku joined the Blues in 2011 but was never given an extended run in the team. He spent time on loan with West Bromwich Albion and Everton, and the Toffees bought him outright in 2014.

The 23-year-old has gone on to establish himself as one of the Premier League's best forwards since then and leads the competition in scoring.

As shared by sports writer Richard Buxton, he's in contention for major silverware:

Koeman's comments all but assure Lukaku will leave the club in the near future, as Everton will be keen to cash in on the striker rather than let him walk at a reduced rate later on in his contract. Losing the Belgian will be a blow for the Toffees, but he should fetch an enormous transfer fee.

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