According to a report from Evening Standard, Chelsea are set to resume negotiations with Inter Milan regarding a potential loan agreement for Romelu Lukaku, which would entail an obligation for the Serie A club to purchase the striker.
Initially, the Blues turned down Inter’s loan proposal for Lukaku two weeks ago, as they were solely interested in selling him outright, but they seem to be reconsidering the situation and are ready to sanction his loan move.
Lukaku’s Successful Loan Spell With Inter Milan Last Season
Lukaku had to endure a difficult campaign at the West London club before moving to The Italian club on loan, as he struggled to perform at a high level as the focal point of Thomas Tuchel’s attack. However, The 30-year-old turned things around for him as he banged in 10 goals and grabbed six assists in 25 matches for Inter last season across all fronts.
The Belgian international was consistent and reliable in the final third based on his average of 2.0 shots, 1.3 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. Although he has been sloppy with his link-up play in the final third, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 72.5% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Good Decision From Chelsea Boss Mauricio Pochettino In Reconsidering His Exit?
Lukaku remains an attacking threat in front of the goal with the Belgian’s goal-poaching abilities inside the penalty box. The veteran striker can position himself in the right places to pick out incoming deliveries from his teammates and make the most out of these chances when he’s playing with confidence. However, with inconsistency in his form, the Belgium international fell down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge under Thomas Tuchel’s spell at the club and was loaned to the Serie A side under tremendous pressure.
Two weeks ago, Chelsea dismissed Inter’s initial loan proposition for Romelu Lukaku, emphasising their preference for a permanent sale rather than a loan arrangement. However, Inter have now shown a willingness to include an obligation to purchase Lukaku at the conclusion of the loan period. This arrangement would enable Chelsea to receive a transfer fee and bring an end to Lukaku’s challenging time at Stamford Bridge, where he was signed for £97.5 million.
This option could be enticing for the West London club, depending on the agreed price. It would provide Inter, who are facing financial difficulties, the opportunity to distribute the cost of Lukaku’s acquisition over two transfer windows. Hence, the Blues have done well to reconsider a potential solution to end Lukaku’s nightmares.
