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Chelsea are ‘not desperate’ to sign a direct replacement for Romelu Lukaku amid their interest in Raheem Sterling, according to reports.
Lukaku is set to rejoin Inter Milan this summer on a loan deal, having signed for the Blues last summer for a club record fee of £97.5 million.
An announcement of the completion of the move could be expected this weekend as the Belgian prepares to make a return to the San Siro ahead of next season.
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With the 29-year-old now expected to leave in the coming week or two, Manchester City winger Sterling has been eyed as a potential target for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
While the England international may be brought in to strengthen their attacking options for the new campaign, it is thought that Chelsea are ‘not desperate’ to sign Lukaku's replacement.
As reported by The Telegraph, a senior source at the club has revealed how the club will be looking to operate in the market this summer.
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They said: “The key is to basically work with Tuchel to come up with the best players that are available. We really want to make sure we have a good defence. We've got depth in midfield. We're not desperate for an out-and-out striker.
“Fortunately, there's reasonable opportunities in the market right now in order to satisfy the fans' desire to be competitive. I think it's a combination of moves and there's five or six that we're going to look to make.”
It was reported that Lukaku initially wanted to return to Inter in the January transfer window, amid the interview he conducted with Sky Italia suggesting he was unhappy with his situation at the club.
However a move was not possible at that point and he therefore remained in west London until the end of the season, finishing the campaign with 15 goals in 44 appearances.
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With one player heading out of the club, Chelsea could soon welcome a new signing as they begin their transfer business for the summer.
Tuchel is believed to have held positive talks with Sterling over a move to Stamford Bridge, with the winger believed to be the German boss’ top attacking target.
The 27-year-old will make a decision on his future in the next couple of weeks as he approaches the final season of his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
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A deal could cost Chelsea around £60 million should they wish to sign the England international.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Romelu Lukaku, Raheem Sterling, Football, Transfers
Robert Calcutt