Due to a series of betrayals, former Inter Milan favorite—now labeled a traitor—Romelu Lukaku has seemingly run out of road. According to BD Cricket’s match analysts, the Belgian striker’s downfall is no longer just a slump—it’s a full-blown collapse. Though AS Roma briefly rescued his career with a last-minute loan, even they showed no interest in making the move permanent, leaving Lukaku once again staring down the barrel of unemployment.
Despite his ambitions to remain on football’s biggest stage, Lukaku’s deteriorating form, fading fitness, and controversial departure from Inter have drastically hurt his value. Chelsea, his current parent club, retains his contract but has no interest in reintegrating him. In fact, offloading Lukaku has been a top priority at Stamford Bridge for several seasons now. However, due to his declining performance and hefty wages, finding a buyer has proven nearly impossible.
A potential breakthrough may come from Napoli. The club is reportedly eager to sell star striker Victor Osimhen, and Chelsea are considering offering Lukaku as part of a swap deal. Napoli has set a price tag of around €100 million for Osimhen, and if Lukaku is valued between €20–30 million, it could help offset the transfer fee. That valuation, while significantly lower than his peak, is considered reasonable given his recent form.
Still, the drop from one of Serie A’s top earners to a mere makeweight in a transfer deal is almost laughable. For Chelsea, if they can secure Osimhen—the No. 9 they’ve long desired—while ridding themselves of Lukaku’s salary burden, it’s a win-win situation.
From Napoli’s perspective, it may not be a bad trade either. BD Cricket observers note that Osimhen has shown signs of discontent and disengagement, and cashing in now could be wise. Lukaku, while no longer elite, remains a competent striker in Italy’s top flight—if he’s willing to take a major pay cut. Moreover, with Stefano Pioli expected to take over as Napoli’s manager next season, Lukaku could benefit from a clean slate under new leadership.
Lukaku’s journey—from Inter’s main man to being tossed around as a transfer voucher—is a cautionary tale in every sense. It serves as a powerful reminder to players: chasing money through betrayal might fill your pockets in the short term, but it can burn bridges and destroy long-term opportunities. No amount of cash can buy back the trust he lost—or the missed chance to celebrate Inter’s latest title alongside his old teammates.
Speaking of Inter, their season goals are essentially wrapped up following their recent title win. The celebrations have already begun. However, the real work now starts for the club’s executives and recruitment staff. With budget constraints looming large, they must address squad depth and make smart additions to maintain their competitive edge.
Top of the to-do list? Reinforcements in attack. Marko Arnautović once again underwhelmed in the recent clash with Sassuolo, making his exit seem inevitable. BD Cricket analysts also point out that while Alexis Sánchez has had a few bright moments, age is catching up to him, and his departure seems just as likely. Once they’re moved on, Inter will need to bring in fresh blood to reshape their forward line and prepare for next season.