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Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly discussed the potential of a swap deal for Romelu Lukaku, with the named discussed with Inter Milan revealed.
Chelsea’s club-record signing is set for a return to the San Siro this summer after the two sides agreed on a season-long loan.
A complete agreement has now been reached, after an initial €5 million loan fee for the club-record signing had been rejected earlier this month, with a €7 million fee plus add-ons being paid this summer.
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Negotiations were tough, with Boehly taking matters into his own hands by meeting with Inter and Lukaku’s lawyer himself.
It has now been revealed that the Blues’ co-owner attempted to bring in a player from Inter in return for Lukaku.
As reported by Simon Johnson of the Athletic, Boehly mentioned three names, which Inter had no interest in trading.
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The American discussed bringing one of Milan Skriniar, Denzel Dumfries or Alessandro Bastoni in exchange.
With Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen departing this summer, Chelsea are in desperate need of central defenders.
Stefan de Vrij, also of Inter Milan, had previously been identified as a target for the Blues but it appears that he was not involved in any negotiations for Lukaku.
Inter rejected any approaches for Inter’s defensive trio, with Dumfries of particular interest as Chelsea seek a wing-back to provide cover for Reece James.
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James spent a spell on the sidelines last season, with Chelsea’s form dropping off in his absence.
Cesar Azpilicueta was the only natural replacement on the right side for the England international, and could also be set to depart this summer.
The most recent information believes that Azpilicueta wishes to move to Barcelona and hopes to be in Spain as early as next week.
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If he is to depart, Chelsea will no doubt enter the market for a replacement.
Jonathan Clauss of RC Lens has been recently linked as a deal for Dumfries fell short.
Furthermore, Chelsea could stay in the market in Italy for a replacement for their outgoing central defenders.
Juventus star Matthijs de Ligt looks like he could arrive at Stamford Bridge this summer.
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The Blues are said to be in pole position for the Dutch international, who is unhappy with the current sporting project in Juventus.
Lukaku is set to undergo his medical and sign his contracts with Inter on Wednesday, as a loan deal will be confirmed.
Chelsea will then enter the market for incoming transfers as Thomas Tuchel looks to build his squad for next season.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Inter Milan, Transfers, Football, Romelu Lukaku