Romelu Lukaku doesn't look as close to returning to Serie A as once thought, with the 29-year-old yet to convince Inter Milan president Steven Zhang. The Chelsea striker has been heavily linked with a move back to his former club this summer after an underwhelming homecoming to Stamford Bridge last season.
The Belgium international has struggled to acclimatise to the Premier League upon his return, finding the net eight times in 26 appearances in the competition. Lukaku's misfortune in front of goal has cast doubt over his future at Chelsea, though he's still managed to garner healthy interest in his services from several top European sides.
Sky Italia claim that the Blues have given the green light to his exit, with Lukaku reportedly wanting to cut ties with Thomas Tuchel. And, following Inter's eagerness to lure the Belgian back to the San Siro, Chelsea are seeking to finalise a loan move that relinquishes the west London club of the striker's services.
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However, according to The Athletic, the current deal on the table is being held up by Inter chief Zhang, who is believed to have 'baulked' at the loan fee demanded by Chelsea. The report adds that the Blues want a guaranteed €10million (£8.6m) and expect the Italian giants to cover the full salary.
The Athletic outline that officials at Inter are in favour of welcoming back Lukaku, but Zhang isn't convinced. Talks are set to continue in a bid to resolve the saga.
According to reports from Italy, via Sport Witness, the Chelsea striker wants nothing to do with Tuchel boss anymore. Ahead of the FA Cup final, Tuchel spoke on Lukaku's future and explained how the club would be willing to evaluate the Belgian's situation.
"I think if he plans to talk with the owner, maybe it is not his plan to talk with me. It's fair enough. Let's see if he gets a meeting! It is his right. We will talk to anybody," the German said of the £59m-rated striker. "We will evaluate any situation of any player, including Romelu. We will see what is going to happen and what the plans are."
football.london understands that Lukaku has asked his lawyer to check the possibility of a possible return to the San Siro, less than 12 months after making the move from Milan to London. football.london also understand that the striker is to hold talks with Todd Boehly and senior figures at the club ahead of making his final decision. However, it's currently unknown as to whether this has already happened or if it is likely to in the future.
