Romelu Lukaku will stay at Everton due to ‘happiness’, Roberto Martinez warns suitors

Everton boss Roberto Martinez is confident of keeping Romelu Lukaku at the club beyond the end of the season because he believes Goodison Park is where the striker will be happiest.

Lukaku joined the Toffees from Chelsea on a season-long loan at the end of the summer and has enjoyed a great spell on Merseyside.

The Belgian international has netted 14 goals for Martinez’s men this season and with his Chelsea future still uncertain, has attracted interest from both Arsenal and Tottenham.

But Martinez is confident he can convince the 20-year-old to remain at Goodison should Chelsea not want him at Stamford Bridge next term.

‘You are not gambling on him doing things well because you know what he can bring and it’s a perfect fit in that respect,” said the Everton manager.

Romelu Lukaku has a good relationship with Roberto Martinez (Picture: Getty)

‘If we can extend his stay then fantastic. If not, we will have great memories.

‘I think there is something we can give that he can’t get elsewhere, it’s enjoying his football.

‘In football, as a player, you can take football happiness for granted quickly. As a young man, to be important in a football club and being happy is vital.

‘He wants to be presented with a challenge that he can enjoy and he can develop, and that’s top and bottom as a player.

‘He’s a grounded and intelligent young man, who is not going to be swayed by the materialistic aspect of the game or something that has got no substance.’