Inter Milan CEO Giuseppe Marotta has reaffirmed that Romelu Lukaku will return to Chelsea following the completion of his loan but suggested that discussions will take place over the Belgian's future.
After a difficult season with the Blues, Lukaku returned to Inter on a season-long loan and has struggled with injury but has featured more frequently in the latter half of the term. The 29-year-old striker has netted nine times across 27 appearances in all competition but scored a brace and added an assist in his last outing against Empoli.
Given the circumstances of his season with Chelsea that combined a difficult season on the pitch and a controversial interview off it, that tainted his relationship with many supporters, it has been difficult to imagine the £97.5million signing making a return to Stamford Bridge. Though any time with the Blues will be spent under a new head coach, who will be required to make their own assessment.
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Mauricio Pochettino appears set to be that man, and Chelsea's goalscoring problems have persisted and even got worse in 2022/23. Nevertheless, with the Blues' requirement to trim their squad numbers, interested parties will need to be taken seriously.
Marotta has previously poured cold water on the idea a return to the north of Italy is a certainty for Lukaku. Discussions appear set between the coach and the board at Inter to decide whether another move is feasible, while the Nerazurri CEO indicated Lukaku's relationships could prove persuasive.
Speaking to Sky Italia ahead of Inter Milan's clash with Lazio, Marotta said: "Lukaku is in love with this club and city, so these are important elements to consider, but the player does not belong to us. He is on loan, he will return to Chelsae on June 30 and we will all evaluate the situation together.
"It is important to note that he is a great professional, he has a great sense of belonging and these are key elements that go alongside the technical and sporting considerations."
Inter's chief also laid out the club's financial position, as they attempt to secure qualification for next season's Champions League. A chance of Chelsea recouping their costs are very slim, and perhaps another loan will be looked upon more favourably by the Italian side.
Marotta said: “The economic planning, based on sustainability, is not just about increasing revenue by going forward in the Champions League and Coppa Italia. Italian football in general is struggling financially, so this will at best cut down the losses we will suffer by the end of the season. We can only look at the sporting merit and boost received from those results.”
Lukaku has also spoken of his desire to extend his stay, putting greater pressure on a deal to be made.
He said: "You have to pay attention to those things [transfer talk]. My goal is to give my best for Inter. I have an excellent relationship with the fans and I've always tried to give everything for Inter because it gave me the opportunity to win two years ago. This club has allowed me to become who I am today."
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