Chelsea told to sign ‘perfect’ Romelu Lukaku replacement as one-year deal mooted – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted Cristiano Ronaldo would be the “perfect” player to fill the void left by mega-money flop Romelu Lukaku at Chelsea.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 37-year-old footballing icon would bring a “real excitement” back to Stamford Bridge.
The Athletic reported on Monday (4 July) that Chelsea were considering a move for Ronaldo after he revealed his desire to leave Man United this summer.
The report claims new Blues owner Todd Boehly has previously held a meeting with super-agent Jorge Mendes – with a move for the mercurial forward among the items on the agenda.
Ronaldo notched 24 goals in 38 total games for Man United during the 2021-22 season but failed to fire his side to Champions League qualification.
Whelan suggested the forward, who turns 38 next year, could have one more season remaining at the highest level.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Look, he scores goals.
“He scores goals in the Premier League, and in the Champions League – and this is the first season he won’t be playing in that competition.
“We want to see the best players in the world in these competitions, and he is certainly still in that bracket.
“The shirt sales he would bring and the marketing tool he would be for Chelsea – he’s perfect to fill the void left by Romelu Lukaku.
“He’d bring a real excitement to the place. He’s got another good season in him, he’s got the desire, drive and passion to play – and that is key.
“You’ve got to commend him for wanting better and wanting to be tested – especially at his age.”
In other news, pundit claims Thomas Tuchel is set for Chelsea fall-out after “big” news.