Romelu Lukaku, the Belgian striker, is reportedly on the brink of severing ties with Chelsea FC, as he has expressed his intentions not to return to the club for pre-season training. This development has prompted Chelsea to consider offers around £40 million for Lukaku, a significant drop from the £97 million they shelled out to bring him back to Stamford Bridge in 2021.
Lukaku's former club, Inter Milan, is reportedly the most interested party in securing his services. The striker had a successful loan spell with the Italian side last season, despite a challenging season marred by injuries and a secondary role to Edin Dzeko during the latter stages of the Champions League. Despite these setbacks, Lukaku managed to net 14 goals across all competitions for Inter Milan, slightly lower than his 15-goal tally with Chelsea the previous season.
The 30-year-old striker's preference for a return to Inter Milan is clear, as he has reportedly turned down more lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and Juventus. Lukaku's relationship with Lautaro Martinez was instrumental in Inter's successful Champions League qualifying campaign and their run to the final. With Dzeko now at Fenerbahce, Lukaku's return could mean increased playing time and a chance to rekindle his successful partnership with Martinez.
According to BBC Sport, Chelsea is seeking approximately £40 million for Lukaku. Inter Milan is expected to make a counter-offer if Andre Onana, their first-choice goalkeeper, joins Manchester United. The potential departure of David de Gea from Manchester United makes this deal more plausible, as Onana has emerged as United's top target. Inter Milan is reportedly seeking around £50 million for Onana, funds that could be used to facilitate Lukaku's return.
The Champions League winners are reportedly eyeing Emil Audero, who could be available for a relatively low sum given Sampdoria's recent relegation to Serie B. This move would allow Inter Milan to secure a replacement goalkeeper while still having enough funds to sign Lukaku. As the transfer season heats up, all eyes will be on these potential moves and how they could reshape the landscape of European football.
