Why Brighton should make a move for Jordan Lukaku

According to Brighton and Hove Independent, Brighton are interested in signing Jordan Lukaku in a bid to bolster their backline.

The report suggests that Lukaku is keen on a move to the Premier League and Lazio are willing to sell him for £5m. However, the Seagulls could face competition to secure his services as league rivals Aston Villa and Leeds United are also keen on the Belgian international.

Profile

Born in Belgium, Lukaku started his journey with Wintam and Lierse before joining Anderlecht’s youth system. He made his debut for the Belgian outfit in the 2011/12 campaign but could not make beyond 9 appearances for the club and was sent on loan to Oostende initially.

His move to Oostende was made permanent after he impressed in his loan spell. After making 83 appearances, he was signed by Lazio in the summer of 2016. Lukaku struggled with injuries in his first season in Italy but immediately established himself as a key member of the squad in the following campaign and helped them lift the Italian Super Cup title and the Italian Cup title.

However, his progress was hampered last season as he picked up another knee injury but made a comeback in the latter stages of the campaign.

Why Brighton need Lukaku

Graham Potter has been busy this summer and has already made several signings. However, the manager should focus on strengthening the left-back position before the transfer window closes. At the moment, Bernardo is the only natural left-back available but the Brazilian doesn’t seem to be at his best.

Apart from him, Dan Burn and Solly March are also capable of playing on the left side of the backline. But they are not natural left-backs. And with Bernardo linked with a move elsewhere, the Seagulls would fall short of a natural option. Thus, signing a left-back is a must this summer.

In that regard, Lukaku would be a viable option for the club. The Belgian returned from injury last season and was a part of the squad which gave Juventus a tough time in the title race. He managed to provide 2 assists in 13 league games last season. /though his numbers may not be among the best, he could be a useful player for a side that lacks options on the left side of the defence.

Read more

• Why Wilmar Barrios would be a good signing for Brighton
• Why a new deal for Ben White is a step in the right direction by Brighton

Verdict

At 26, Lukaku has a lot to offer at the top level. At the same time, the Seagulls lack options at the back. The Belgian could provide them with some much-needed depth and quality. Thus, they should manage to lure him to the Amex at the earliest.