Inter Lukaku link, while Pogba may be skipper
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was coy about Romelu Lukaku’s Manchester United future as the Inter Milan target hinted at movement next week.
Just two years after arriving from Everton in an initial £75million deal, the 26-year-old is understood to be welcoming interest from the Serie A giants.
Antonio Conte’s side met United in recent days for discussions, but Inter have been struggling to fund a deal for the Belgium international.
The striker missed yesterday’s 2-0 friendly win against Perth Glory due to a knock and fuelled speculation about his future as he left Optus Stadium, telling reporters: “You guys will know something next week”.
Lukaku’s brief comment came as Solskjaer faced questions about the frontman’s fitness and happiness at the post-match press conference.
“There’s been so many speculations, but, yes, he should be fit for Wednesday (against Leeds),” the Old Trafford manager said.
“He trained with the team yesterday, but it wasn’t useful today to risk him, to be fair.”
Quizzed on whether Lukaku will still be a player at the start of the season, Solskjaer added: “Well, let’s see when the season starts. We’ve not had any bids that we’re considering.”
Meanwhile, Solskjaer is considering Paul Pogba for the captaincy, despite the Manchester United midfielder’s desire to leave this summer.
Marcus Rashford’s fine strike was followed by an impressive James Garner effort as the Red Devils opened their pre-season with that win against Perth Glory.
Pogba came on at half-time as Solskjaer completely rotated his side at the huge Optus Stadium.
Agent Mino Raiola compounded matters by talking about how he is working to get his client a move, but Solskjaer says he would still consider the midfielder for a leadership role this season.
“No, it hasn’t (been decided),” the United boss said of the captaincy, having seen Antonio Valencia depart in the summer.
“So we’ve got quite a few possibilities there and when the season starts we’ll announce.”
Asked if Pogba is under consideration for the role, Solskjaer said: “Yeah.”
Speculation about outgoings will continue throughout the tour, while Solskjaer is keeping his cards close to his chest when it comes to signings.
It’s understood that United are still trying to sign Leicester centreback Harry Maguire, while they are scouring the market for a midfielder.
“I think you need to speak to Ed ( Woodward, executive vicechairman) or others,” the United boss said about transfers.
“At the moment, I can’t give you any updates.”