Chelsea re hoping that they are able to sell striker Romelu Lukaku outright rather than loaning him to Inter again if his value increases off the back of a strong World Cup.

This according to UK media outlet the Evening Standard, who report that the Blues are hoping that a strong showing at the World Cup will cause the 29-year-old’s market value to increase so that they can bring in a significant fee for a permanent sale next summer.

Lukaku is currently only on loan at Inter from Chesea, although the possibility of the loan deal being extended next summer with a view to an eventual permanent transfer to Inter has already been extended.

However, from the Premier League club’s perspective, they would still rather sell the Belgian outright.

Lukaku should start for Belgium at the upcoming World Cup which starts in around three weeks, provided he is able to get fit from his current injury.

The Blues’ hope is that the 29-year-old puts in some outstanding performances for his country and this attracts greater transfer interest in him as they are still holding out hope of a permanent sale at a high fee.