Chelsea are open to loan talks with Inter Milan so long as the Nerazzurri’s offer includes a purchase obligation.
This according to UK tabloid the Daily Express, via FCInterNews, who report that the Blues will return to the table with Inter over the coming days now that it’s been made clear that the 30-year-old Belgian international’s mind is made up.
Inter have been doing everything they can to try and bring Lukaku back for next season.
Inter coach Simone Inzaghi has made clear that he considers securing the Belgian for next season a priority.
However, so far the Nerazzurri have been offering only loan deals. These have all faced swift rejection by Chelsea.
The Blues are not going to listen to any more offers for straight loans of the 30-year-old.
Chelsea Open To Lukakau Loan Talks With Inter If Purchase Obligation Offered
Whilst Chelsea’s preference would naturally be to sell Lukaku once and for all, they could still accept a loan bid.
Inter are reportedly ready to offer a loan deal containing a purchase obligation worth €30 million.
For the Nerazzurri, this would mean not having to invest that amount this summer. It would allow Inter to spread out payment for Lukaku.
On the other hand, for Chelsea this would mean that they would at least be guaranteed a fee. The Blues would insist on a mandatory obligation, but if Inter do indeed offer this then their offer will be considered.
The Daily Express note that a loan deal still isn’t ideal for Chelsea.
The reason for this is that under new UEFA regulations, there are a limited number of slots for players from their squad going out on loan.
However, Lukaku himself is doing everything he can to force Chelsea’s hand. The Belgian has made clear that he’ll dig in his heels.
Lukaku has already rejected a huge money move to Al-Hilal.
Given that Chelsea hardly want to deal with an unhappy player on huge wages, they’ll do what they can. The Blues would consider the offer that they’re not anticipating from Inter.