By support

21st Aug, 2016 | 6:53pm

Everton boost as Chelsea turn to £25m international striker after Lukaku news – report

By Will Butcher

Chelsea have turned their attention to Juventus hot-shot Mario Mandzukic after it was confirmed that Romelu Lukaku has pledged his commitment to Everton, according to a report.

The Toffees’ attacking spearhead Romelu Lukaku has been on Chelsea’s radar for the majority of the summer, with rumours suggesting that a return to Stamford Bridge could be on the cards.

However, the Daily Mirror have claimed that manager Antonio Conte has now shifted his focus to his old side for the Croatian target-man after having to admit defeat in his pursuit of Lukaku.

According to the report, the former Juventus manager could be about to make an offer of £25million for Mandzukic after the 30-year-old is likely to play back-up to prolific duo Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala.

Mandzukic is under contract with Juventus until 2019 and only joined the club last summer in a £16million deal.

The Croatian international arrived from Spain after a disappointing spell at Atletico Madrid, but managed 13 goals in 36 appearances for the Serie A champions last season.

Mandzukic has scored 157 goals in 349 club appearances in a career that has seen him play for Bayern Munich and Wolfsburg, as well as in Spain and Italy.

London rivals West Ham and Arsenal have also been reportedly interested in the former Dinamo Zagreb man, according to Italian site Gazzetta World.

In other Everton transfer news, the Toffees have had a £22m bid rejected for this striker.