Romelu Lukaku was arguably one of the signings of the season. The young man captured the imagination of the Goodison faithful with his powerful displays and his 15 league goals as well as 8 assists went a long way in helping Everton enjoy a fine campaign.

However, Lukaku was signed by Everton only on a loan deal and while the Toffees’ fans would certainly bite off Chelsea’s arm if given a chance to acquire the striker next season as well, there is a distinct possibility that the 21-year old will not be returning to Goodison Park next season.

As a result of his fine performances, Lukaku has generated interest from a host of top clubs across Europe. The striker has made no secret of his desire of playing in the Champions League as well and even if the Belgian international would be ready to return to Everton, it seems very unlikely that the Toffees will be able to stump up a reported £25million for his services.

Therefore, quite a few players have been linked with a move to Everton as a replacement for Lukaku next season and here is a look at the three players whom the Toffees can look to as an alternative to the Belgian striker.

Danny Welbeck

Team	Manchester United
Appearances	36
Goals	10
Assists	6
Age	23
Expected Fee	£15million

Although an ambitious target, Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck has been constantly linked with a move to Everton recently. The striker was reported to be unhappy at Old Trafford due to the lack of first team football coming his way and as a result, Everton were believed to have expressed an interest in the 23-year old.

While such reports have been since dismissed as baseless rumors, the Toffees certainly would welcome a player like Welbeck in place of Lukaku.

He may have his critics but there is no doubting that Welbeck is a very talented young player. Although his finishing does leave a lot to be desired, his work ethic and tireless running is an asset to any team, and his contribution is much appreciated by his teammates.

Welbeck might seem a downgrade on Lukaku but the England international does have time to improve and under Roberto Martinez – a man who has a fantastic record of nurturing youngsters, the 23-year old could certainly flourish.

The likelihood of Welbeck moving to Everton does not look to bright at the moment but if he is made available for £15million, the Toffees should certainly look to tempt the young man to Goodison Park.

Carlos Bacca

Team	Sevilla
Appearances	52
Goals	21
Assists	12
Age	27
Expected Fee	£12million

A more prolific option to Welbeck, Carlos Bacca has proven that he is one of the most dangerous strikers around in Europe at the moment, following his goalscoring exploits over the last few years. The 27-year old’s goals helped Sevilla lift the Europa League title this season and with Radamel Falcao out injured, Bacca looks set to play a starring role in Colombia’s World Cup campaign.

It is not just goals that Bacca brings to the table, – the striker also create lots of chances for his teammates as evidenced by his 12 assists this season.

Sevilla have made it clear in no uncertain terms that they are not looking to part with the striker whom they acquired just 12 months ago but it is believed that an offer of around 12million could tempt the Spanish side to part with the Colombian superstar.

Certainly an optimistic target, but if Bacca does arrive to Goodison Park, Romelu Lukaku’s presence will not be missed so badly.

Jordan Rhodes

Team	Blackburn Rovers
Appearances	46
Goals	25
Assists	5
Age	24
Expected Fee	£10million

The least high profile player among the three, Jordan Rhodes has also been mentioned in some quarters as a possible replacement for Lukaku.

Although a completely different type of striker to Lukaku and probably not the player the Goodison faithful would want, there is no denying that Rhodes is a predator in front of goal.

The 24-year old has never played in the Premier League but his record in the Championship is astonishing, having scored 124 goals in just 213 appearances.

While a good record in the second tier of English football does not necessarily translate into success in the Premier League, there is no denying that the Championship is a very difficult league and that Rhodes is a quality finisher.

With Blackburn Rovers having bought Rhodes for a whopping £8million, they will surely not accept a bid less than what they paid for the striker two years ago. A fee of around £10million has been deemed acceptable and while a risk for Everton, there is every possibility that Rhodes could turn out to be an inspired signing.