Football News: Chelsea 'resigned to losing Romelu Lukaku for cut-price fee

Chelsea are apparently prepared to trade Romelu Lukaku for a bargain price in a future transfer window. The Blues secured the club-record signing of Lukaku from Inter Milan for a sum of £97.5 million in August 2021.

This signing made them believe that they had discovered a long-term solution down the centre of their attack. However, the Belgian international was permitted to return to Inter on loan after just scoring 15 goals from 44 games.

When he returned, it was expected that a second temporary spell or permanent swap would follow. Moreover, it was assumed that all parties were overjoyed with their reunion.

However, Lukaku has had a tough time at San Siro, scoring just five goals in 10 starts & 9 substitute appearances. Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta has already stated that the 29-year-old is likely to return to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Marotta told Sky Italia:

"Lukaku hasn't found the fitness he needs to play his best football. He's still not at his best or the player we got to see in years gone by."

Thus, the loan move will not be converted into a permanent transfer and the Belgian will go back to London. According to Football Insider, the Blues will have to accept a substantial financial loss if they want to sell Lukaku this summer.

According to the source, Chelsea will have to accept a value less than £30 million if they want to permanently offload Lukaku.

It may be realistic depending on his season's end, but clubs are aware of Chelsea's dilemma and desire to raise funds in the summer to improve their position with FFP.

While Aston Villa have been linked with a move for Lukaku, it remains uncertain whether any of Europe's top teams will entertain a deal.

Lukaku's contract has more than three years left on it, so another season-long loan is possible if a permanent deal can't be reached.

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