On-loan Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku admits he had been dreaming of a chance to play under ex-Blues boss Jose Mourinho for years.
The Portugese’s reign at Real Madrid ended on mutual terms on Monday, but not without a parting shot from Barcelona vice-president Carles Villarubi who labelled his tenure a "scourge".
Mourinho, who managed Chelsea to arguably their most successful period in the Premier League from 2004 to 2007, has long been backed for a return to Stamford Bridge.
Lukaku’s dream could yet be realised, with his loan spell at West Brom ending following 17 goals in 35 appearances, and a return to Chelsea on the cards.
The striker told RTBF’s Tribune show: "When Mourinho led Chelsea, I thought all the time that it would be a dream to be coached by him.
"I should talk to him now and know what his thoughts are about me."
His personal desires aside, Lukaku’s immediate future could yet be questioned, especially under new Chelsea management.
Just eight appearances in his debut season for Chelsea in 2011/12, means a transfer may not prove a raw deal, especially with Belgium’s World Cup qualifiers looming.
However, the 20-year-old insisted he was putting his overall development at the fore, adding: "I have to be smart in my choice. The bottom line is that I’m progressing and I confirmed my progress this year.
"Of course the World Cup will play an important role. After the pre-season with Chelsea, we have the World Cup qualifiers and I have to be ready for them."
The qualifiers themselves have not proven a happy hunting ground for Lukaku, having primarily been an unused substitute as Belgium rose to the top of their group.
But he remains positive about a future role with his national side, for who he has made 19 appearances scoring three goals.
He said: "The team wins and that’s the point. I should think about the team.
"It’s for me to show the coach that I deserve better. I should control my emotions and wait to speak with him, as it is all very direct."
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