Lukaku Good To Replace Costa – Lampard

Chelsea great Frank Lampard believes Romelu Lukaku is a good option to replace Diego Costa, but feels the Spain international’s departure will be a blow.

Costa claimed head coach Antonio Conte no longer wanted him at the Premier League champions, despite his 22 goals in 2016-17.

Lukaku, 24, has regularly been linked with a return to Stamford Bridge after four strong seasons at Everton.

Lampard said the Belgium international would be a fine replacement, but added there were other possibilities.

“I know Romelu from playing alongside him, it was early on in his career and he probably didn’t get the chances in his first spell at the club,” he told Sky Sports.

“He’s certainly developed to a huge degree since he left the club, Romelu would certainly be a good option. The only thing Chelsea have to look at is the inflated market that is around now, it makes it very tough.