Chelsea owned striker Romelu Lukaku has sent a very clear message that he wants to stay at Inter Milan.

This according to today’s print edition of Rome-based newspaper Corriere dello Sport, via FCInter1908, who report that it is nevertheless necessary for the two clubs to find an agreement on a new loan deal for the Belgian if he is to remain at the Nerazzurri.

As the Corriere notes, Lukaku has done just about everything to make his feelings on his future clear.

After scoring against Atalanta over the weekend, the 30-year-old touched the Nerazzurri crest and pointed to the ground.

Lukaku has seemingly been using every weekend as another opportunity to state his case to Inter. The Belgian has finally hit something like his best form after an injury-hit season.

For the Corriere, there is no doubt about the message that Lukaku is sending.

The striker wants to stay at Inter past the summer.

Lukaku Wants To Stay Put – Inter Milan & Chelsea Must Agree New Loan Deal

It is not quite as simple as just the player’s desire, however, notes the Corriere.

Regardless of Lukaku’s preference, the striker will return to Chelsea at the end of the season, at least at first. Inter CEO Beppe Marotta has confirmed as much.

With Lukaku a Chelsea player once again when his loan expires, he’ll have to convince the two clubs to work out an agreement to send him back to the San Siro.

From the Blues’ perspective, it is not certain that they’ll be too keen to give up the Belgian.

Centre-forward remains a problem position for Chelsea, highlighted by their woes in attack this season. Should incoming Blues coach Mauricio Pochettino want to keep Lukaku, this could prove a stumbling block in negotiations with Inter.

Then, there is the question of a loan fee.

Last summer, Inter and Chelsea agreed a paid loan deal for Lukaku. The Nerazzurri paid a fee of around €8 million, plus significant add-ons.

Inter won’t be keen to pay that much this time around. However, by the same token, Chelsea will only want to be negotiated down so far.

A permanent sale would be out of the question considering Lukaku is still budgeted for around €70 million by the Blues.

On the other hand, the Corriere notes, it should be much easier for Inter to convince Lukaku to accept a wage reduction. Lukaku would have to lower his wages as a condition to stay, and would have no problems doing so.