Inter Milan are closing in on signing Romelu Lukaku after agreeing a revised loan fee with Chelsea, according to reports.
The 29-year-old expressed his desire to return to the Nerazzurri this summer despite only returning to Stamford Bridge last summer for a club-record fee of £97.5 million.
He netted 15 goals in all competitions but as the season went on, his relationship with boss Thomas Tuchel strained, leaving his future unclear as the 2021/22 campaign drew to a close.
Lukaku, who parted ways with his agent, wanted to hold talks with the new owners over his future has now got his wish granted of departing Chelsea to head back to Italy to the San Siro.
Advert
It was a decision that Todd Boehly, co-controlling owner, reluctantly accepted as he wasn't fully convinced that letting him go was the right call.
But they opted back Tuchel and the decision has been made to let him leave on loan for the 2022/23 season.
Boehly made it his mission to secure Lukaku's exit, playing an 'instrumental role' in negotiations. Lukaku had hoped to re-join Inter before pre-season.
Talks have continued over the last week or so and an agreement appears to have been struck between the two clubs, as reported by Gianluca Di Marzio.
Advert
An announcement is imminent, with a deal likely to be confirmed in the coming days.
How much will Inter Milan pay?
As per reports in Italy, the Serie A side will pay Chelsea an initial €8 million plus add-ons.
Is there an option/obligation to buy at the end of the season-long loan?
There is no option for Inter to make the deal permanent next year.
What's left to do?
The deal is agreed. All that is needed to do is for Lukaku to undergo his medical and then sign his contract before his return to Inter and the San Siro is announced.
What's next for Chelsea once Lukaku's departure is confirmed?
Tuchel, Boehly and co will press on with bringing in new additions to bolster the current squad which has already seen multiple exits this summer, including Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
Advert
Chelsea are very interested in Raheem Sterling and Jules Kounde, while RC Lens defender Jonathan Clauss is of interest.
It was the Blues' priority to sort in-house issues, including Lukaku's future, before pressing on with other transfer business ahead of the squads return to Cobham at the start of July.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Romelu Lukaku, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Transfers, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Football, Premier League
