Everton star Romelu Lukaku can be replaced according to boss Roberto Martinez

EVERTON boss Roberto Martinez says he is on the lookout for the next Romelu Lukaku.

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By Timothy Abraham/Published 30th November 2013

REPLACEABLE: On loan Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku has been a revelation since joining Everton [GETTY]

The Spaniard admits it is ­unlikely the Belgium striker’s season-long loan from Chelsea will become a permanent deal next summer, even though he would love to keep him.

Lukaku, who faces Stoke today, is a fans’ favourite at Goodison Park this season with his all-­action style and seven goals.

The Blues believe he will be ready to lead the line at ­Stamford Bridge next season, though the 20-year-old might still decide he needs to move on.

“we have a good recruitment department at the club”

Roberto Martinez, Everton manager

Despite the likelihood of ­losing the powerhouse next summer, Martinez (right) said: “We will find another Romelu, don’t worry.
“Chelsea rate him really highly and made a massive investment on a player they always felt was going to take three, four, five years to be ready for them.
“We are just happy to have Romelu. All I want is for him to develop a good memory at ­Everton, nothing else.
“But we have a good recruitment department at the club.
“You need to constantly ­look at how you can improve the squad, how you can always keep the squad at the same level, even if you have to change players.”

ON THE HUNT: Martinez is resigned to loosing Lukaku at the end of the season and is looking for an adequate replacement [GETTY]

Everton are more optimistic of holding on to another loan signing in Gareth Barry.
The 32-year-old is out of ­contract with parent club ­Manchester City next summer and Everton are likely to talk with the ­midfielder over a one-year deal with the ­option for another.
Martinez added: “With Gareth, like Romelu, I don’t think it comes down to finance.
“They move because of ­aspiration and because they can develop as footballers.”