Striker Romelu Lukaku has made clear to Chelsea coach Mauricio Pochettino that he’s only interested in staying at Inter Milan.
This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, who report that it will then be up to the two clubs to try and agree another loan deal for the Belgian.
As things stand, Lukaku’s situation is up in the air.
The 30-year-old’s loan at Inter expires at the end of the current month. Nerazzurri CEO Beppe Marotta has confirmed that Lukaku will return to Chelsea when his loan deal is up. Then, it will be up to the clubs to try and agree a new deal.
Romelu Lukaku Sends Chelsea Boss Pochettino A Message
The fact that Chelsea have a new coach could play a factor in Lukaku’s future.
Former Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino has arrived for next season.The 51-year-old is keen for a new striker to build around, and reports have suggested he could be interested in bringing Lukaku back.
However, according to the Gazzetta, Lukaku has made things clear to Pochettino. His only priority is staying at Inter next season.
Accordingly, the new Chelsea boss is focusing his energy elsewhere.
The Gazzetta report that Pochettino’s primary target in the striker position is Juventus and Serbia start Dusan Vlahovic.
Inter To Ask Chelsea For Discount On Paid Loan Deal For Lukaku
Inter will make an attempt to bring Lukaku back next season. The 30-year-old has been in outstanding form in recent weeks after a largely injury-hit campaign.
Lukaku has every chance of playing a role in the Champions League final against Manchester City.
The Belgian could end the season as a European champions.
However, the Gazzetta reports, Inter want a discount on another paid loan deal. Last season, the Nerazzurri paid a loan fee of €8 million plus add-ons to bring Lukaku back one season after he had been sold.
This time around, Inter want to pay less.
Chelsea will have to accept these terms for another loan deal to happen, the Gazzetta reports.