Inter Milan have already discussed a potential of a second successive loan for Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea, according to reports in Italy.
The Belgian arrived at Stamford Bridge from the Serie A champions at the time but failed to impress despite scoring 15 goals upon his return.
His spell back at Chelsea saw him conduct an interview with Italian media, where he admitted that he wanted to return to Inter in the future.
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This led to a break down in his relationship with former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, and subsequently his departure on loan.
Lukaku secured his return to Inter, on an initial season-long loan but it is believed that he will extend this, either on a permanent deal or another loan.
Chelsea brought in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a direct replacement for Lukaku, with the Gabon international also taking Lukaku's number nine shirt at the club.
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Tuchel has been dismissed from Chelsea in recent weeks, and while this could have perhaps paved a return for the Belgian, it appears that Inter are keen to keep him in Italy.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano on his YouTube channel, Inter Milan and Chelsea have already discussed the potential of a second loan spell next season.
A rule change in Serie A saw it impossible for Inter to take Lukaku on a two-year loan from Chelsea in the summer.
However, the belief at the time would be that he would spend a second season on loan before Inter Milan made the move permanent.
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The talks about a second loan move have been informal so far, Romano continues, and will not be concluded any time soon.
It is likely that the club will reach an agreement for this next summer, allowing Lukaku to spend a second season back in the Serie A.
It remains to be seen as to whether Chelsea would look to sign a long-term striker once Lukaku departs once more, with Aubameyang 33-years-old.
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Armando Broja has impressed off the bench this season and could offer a long-term solution for Chelsea.
The final choice will no doubt be down to Graham Potter after he replaced Tuchel.
Lukaku could still return next season, although this is thought to be unlikely due to his admiration for Inter and previous comments regarding a return to Italy.
However, stranger things have happened in football.
Topics: Chelsea, Romelu Lukaku, Inter Milan, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Transfers, Football
Nick Emms