Romelu Lukaku Wanted Inter Milan Return In January Before Chelsea Sanctioned Summer Exit

Romelu Lukaku wanted to return to Inter Milan back in January before Chelsea allowed his departure this summer, according to reports.

The Belgian is set to go back to Inter ahead of next season on a loan deal, having originally signed for the Blues last year.

His club record move got off to a promising start but he soon struggled to score on a regular basis, and it became clear that he was unhappy with his situation in west London.

In an interview with Sky Italia in December, he revealed his intentions of returning to Inter at some point in his career, having won the Serie A title there in 2021.

However Lukaku is set to go back to the San Siro sooner than expected, with the 29-year-old joining the club on loan this summer.

Romelu Lukaku during his time at Inter Milan. (Alamy)

Although he is preparing to leave in the coming weeks, Fabrizio Romano has reported that the striker wanted to go back to Inter in the January transfer window.

The market opened just days after the quotes from his Sky Italia interview were revealed and it was clear that he was unhappy at Chelsea, but a move back to his former side was not possible at that point.

Lukaku’s medical at Inter is set to take place next week, meaning a move is very close to completion.

It was also revealed that an unnamed member at Chelsea wanted to keep the forward at the club beyond the summer window but the recently appointed co-owner of the club, Todd Boehly, decided otherwise and conducted talks with Inter officials and the player’s lawyer to discuss a move.

The Belgian international will leave the Blues with just 15 goals to his name from 44 games last season, with the striker’s form fluctuating throughout the campaign.

Romelu Lukaku of Chelsea warming up before the Premier League match between Chelsea and Watford. (Alamy)

While Chelsea are now set to complete one of their outgoings ahead of the new season, they will now be looking to finalise incomings throughout the window.

Jules Kounde has been heavily linked with a switch from Sevilla to Stamford Bridge this summer, having come close to a move last year.

Raheem Sterling has also emerged as a potential target for Thomas Tuchel’s side, with the winger having just one year left on his contract at Manchester City after joining from Liverpool back in 2015.

Everton’s Richarlison is another speculated name for the Blues, having helped to save the Toffees from relegation to the Championship last season.