My go at second guessing what's gone on.
- Lukaku wants off. Shock.
- Everton, currently can prevent this.
- Raiola knows this, and wanted a new deal with a minimum fee release.
- Both parties then, want/wanted a deal.
- Everton/Raiola couldn't agree that fee. Raiola wanting less, knowing he has teams who'd pay an amount.
- Raiola turned to the media - 99.99999% done stuff was solely to add pressure on Everton to accept their terms.
- Everton won't budge.
- Lukaku comments and todays media leak the last attempt to secure that contract renewal to avoid derailing EFC season.
I hope Everton stand firm, accept no deal with a low minimum fee. A deal now with a low minimum fee means Lukaku leaves in the summer and Raiola pockets from Everton in the immediate, and for the transfer.
He has 2 years after this one remaining. What's Lukaku worth to Everton a season?