Ronald Koeman wanted Romelu Lukaku at Barcelona - report

Ronald Koeman wanted his first signing after joining FC Barcelona to be his former pupil Romelu Lukaku, according to a new report from Catalonia. However, the Belgian was unable to come due to economic issues.

Lukaku plays for Inter Milan, the same club as another striker the Catalans targeted: Lautaro Martínez.

Luis Suárez was told he would not be counted upon for next season, opening up a door for a new striker. Koeman’s first choice was Lukaku, a player he knew from when they both were a part of Everton.

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the economic front made Barcelona unwilling to pay a high price for Lukaku, especially as the club was looking at trying to find several solutions in the transfer market.

Now, it’s up to be seen whether Suárez does indeed leave, and if so, whether the Catalans bring in someone to replace him. Memphis Depay has been heavily linked with a move to the Camp Nou.