Manchester United have a clear message for Inter Milan about Romelu Lukaku – and may have identified his replacement

Lukaku has missed the first three games of United’s pre-season tour as speculation over his future continues. However, with Inter failing so far to meet his £80m valuation, time is running out to secure a replacement – potentially, Lille’s Nicolas Pepe, whose 22 goals last season helped his club finish second.  According to The Times, United have been monitoring the Ivorian and could move if Lukaku leaves.  Inter have already had a bid of around £54m rejected, and would need to offload Mauro Icardi before increasing that.  Inter’s new manager Antonio Conte has admitted his frustration at failing to land the striker. Speaking to press in Singapore, he said: “You know I like this player. I tried to bring him in Chelsea. “Today, Lukaku is a United player. At this moment we are talking about a player from another club. “I consider him an important player for us to have a good improvement. At the same time, there is a market, we know our situation.” Lukaku has been public in his praise for Conte too, previously calling him “the best manager in the world” and stating his desire to play in Italy.  NOW READ… Quiz! Can you name the 26 highest-scoring Premier League players by letter of the alphabet How Gareth Bale and Zinedine Zidane reached the point of no return at Real Madrid 27 essential Fantasy Premier League tips from old winners and experts Inter Milan to propose money plus this player for Romelu Lukaku – report Manchester United reject swap deal with Serie A club – report What Inter Milan are willing to offer Manchester United for Romelu Lukaku Inter Milan lay out offer for Romelu Lukaku – but it’s still not enough for Manchester United Wolves set to complete loan deal for Real Madrid defender Jesus Vallejo Eric Bailly concerned over his Manchester United future amid Harry Maguire speculation Bury face threat of expulsion from EFL Paulo Dybala opens the door for Premier League move Tottenham chairman Levy to give Pochettino increased backing in silverware bid 7 players Frank Lampard must still sell despite Chelsea’s transfer ban 28 red hot fantasy football tips Manchester United clinch €75m deal for midfielder as Real Madrid close in on Paul Pogba 10 overpriced transfers that absolutely worked out Manchester United haggling over £7m in pursuit of Bruno Fernandes