Chelsea are set to confirm the departure of striker Romelu Lukaku on Wednesday with a deal agreed with Inter Milan that will see him return to the Serie A side on loan.
Lukaku only made the move to Chelsea a year ago, signing for a club-record £97 million transfer fee from Inter Milan after leading Antonio Conte's side to their first league title in 10 years. But his first season back in the Premier League was a huge disappointment, finding the net just eight times in the top-flight.
In December an interview with Lukaku was broadcast on Sky Italia in which he revealed that he did not want to leave Inter and would have rather remained than sign for Chelsea. It caused plenty of friction with supporters and Thomas Tuchel and as the season progressed it looked less and less likely that he would have a long-term future at the club.
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It has since been reported that Chelsea have agreed a loan package with Inter that will see Lukaku return on loan for the coming campaign although there is not expected to be an option or obligation to buy included. Matt Law of The Telegraph reported on Sunday evening that the move is set to go through on Wednesday, June 29 after the player completes a medical.
As far as a replacement goes, there appear to be no advanced negotiations for a striker. Todd Boehly has provided Tuchel with £200 million to bolster his side but there is plenty of work to be done on the entire squad.
Sky Sports News reported on Monday that the Blues were considering joining Tottenham in the race to sign Everton striker Richarlison this summer. The Toffees are said to be asking for £50 million for the Brazilian's signature but there are no advanced talks from either side as of yet.
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