Potter learns Romelu Lukaku’s Chelsea future as Inter Milan make transfer decision

Inter Milan have confirmed Romelu Lukaku will return to Chelsea this summer once his season-loan deal concludes.

Lukaku returned to the Nerazzurri last summer after just one season at Chelsea following his club-record £97.5 million transfer to Stamford Bridge in 2021 from Inter Milan.

The 29-year-old has been hit by injuries this term and it’s limited him to just 18 appearances for Inter in all competitions. During that time, Lukaku has netted five goals and registered the single assist.

At the time of Lukaku’s loan move back to the San Siro, it was reported that a deal had been verbally agreed between the clubs that Inter could extend the loan switch by a further season should they wish.

However, CEO Giuseppe Marotta has revealed Lukaku will return to Chelsea and Graham Potter‘s squad this summer regardless, before a further decision is made on the Belgium international’s future.

“The loan was for one season so on June 30 regardless of how well he plays, he’ll go back to Chelsea,” Marotta told Sky Italia. 

‘This has been an unprecedented season. I’m referring, of course, to the World Cup. The problems we’ve experienced have been experienced by other clubs too and the players who played at the World Cup.

“Lukaku is a case in point. (Marcelo) Brozovic isn’t the Brozovic we know. 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.”

Potter was asked prior to Chelsea’s 3-1 win over Leicester City in the Premier League last week about Lukaku’s future and remained coy on Lukaku’s long-term future.

“Well, that’s nothing for me to think about at the moment,” the Chelsea head coach replied when asked about a potential extra year-long loan spell for Lukaku at Inter.

“He is there and he is playing. I think those discussions and conversations will be made at the end of the season.”

Former Belgium national team coach Thierry Henry revealed Lukaku didn’t want to return to Chelsea, telling CBS Sports last month: “I don’t think he wants to go back. That’s the main thing. He wants to stay at Inter.”

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