Inter are allegedly prepared to part ways with Romelu Lukaku, as they have no intention of engaging in additional transfer negotiations with Chelsea.
Romelu Lukaku’s Struggles at Inter
The renowned Serie A team brought back the Belgian international striker to San Siro in the summer of 2022, a year after transferring him to Stamford Bridge for £98 million ($122m). However, Romelu Lukaku has had difficulty rediscovering his form in Italy, scoring only seven goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this season.
He has managed only three goals in the league, with two of those coming from penalty kicks. Lukaku’s last Serie A goal from open play was in August 2022 against Lecce. With the 29-year-old facing challenges in form and fitness, Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Inter has no plans to retain him for the 2023-24 season.
Inter’s Search for Alternatives
Instead of pursuing further discussions with Chelsea, Inter is shifting its focus to other players. Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino and Borussia Monchengladbach’s Marcus Thuram are reportedly in Inter’s considerations, as both players are approaching free agency. Mateo Retegui, an Argentina-born Italy international currently on loan at Tigre, is another primary target for the Milan-based club.
Lukaku’s Future at Chelsea
With no agreement for Lukaku in sight, the formidable Belgian striker will have to return to West London this summer. His contract with Chelsea is set to last until 2026.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Romelu Lukaku’s journey in professional football began with his debut for Anderlecht in 2009 at the tender age of 16. He quickly established himself as a goal-scoring prodigy, netting 15 goals in his first season with the Belgian club. Over the next two seasons, Lukaku continued to impress, scoring 33 league goals for Anderlecht before securing a transfer to Premier League giants Chelsea in 2011.
Loan Spells and Development
Despite his promising start, Lukaku found it challenging to break into Chelsea’s first team. Consequently, he was loaned to West Bromwich Albion for the 2012-13 season. The Belgian striker thrived during his time at West Brom, scoring 17 Premier League goals and finishing as the club’s top scorer. Following this successful spell, Lukaku was loaned to Everton for the 2013-14 season. Once again, he showcased his goal-scoring prowess, notching 15 league goals and helping Everton achieve a fifth-place finish.
Permanent Move to Everton
Lukaku’s impressive performances during his loan spell led to a permanent move to Everton in 2014 for a then-club record fee of £28 million. Over the course of four seasons at Goodison Park, the Belgian forward scored 68 league goals, becoming one of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers. His contributions helped Everton maintain a consistent mid-table presence during his tenure.
Successful Stint at Manchester United
In 2017, Lukaku joined Manchester United in a £75 million deal. In his debut season, he scored 16 Premier League goals and helped the Red Devils finish second in the league. The following season saw Lukaku net 12 league goals, as well as play a crucial role in United’s run to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League.
Initial Success at Inter Milan
Romelu Lukaku moved to Serie A giants Inter Milan in 2019 for a club-record fee of €80 million. During his first season in Italy, the Belgian striker formed a formidable partnership with Lautaro Martinez, scoring 23 league goals and helping Inter finish as Serie A runners-up. In his second season, Lukaku continued his impressive form, scoring 24 league goals and playing an instrumental role in securing Inter’s first Serie A title since 2010.
Short Stint at Chelsea and Struggles at Inter
Lukaku returned to Chelsea in 2021, signing for £98 million ($122m). However, his second spell with the London club was short-lived, as he was transferred back to Inter Milan the following year. Despite his previous success with the Italian side, Lukaku struggled to find his footing during the 2022-23 season, scoring only seven goals in 24 appearances across all competitions.
In summary, Romelu Lukaku’s career has been characterized by impressive goal-scoring feats and consistent performances for several top clubs. Although he faced challenges during his most recent tenure at Inter Milan, his past achievements reflect his undeniable talent as a striker.