Chelsea star ‘angered’ by rumors linking him with exit amid uncertainty at Stamford Bridge: Reports
Romelu Lukaku has no plans to leave Chelsea amidst claims that he is keen on a return to Serie A club Inter Milan, according to The Daily Telegraph.
The Blues re-signed the Belgium international from Inter for a club-record £97.7 million last summer. However, Lukaku has been largely disappointing since returning to Stamford Bridge, having scored just five goals in 18 Premier League appearances.
Off-the-field issues have made matters worse for the 28-year-old in London. Last December, Lukaku gave an explosive interview to Sky Italia that made him the talk of the town. In it, the Belgian expressed his frustration with Blues boss Thomas Tuchel and suggested that he would like to return to Inter.
Romelu Lukaku is willing to take a wage cut to rejoin Inter Milan. Contacts have been active.
- @Gazzetta_it https://t.co/N9HZvY4r5o
According to recent reports, Lukaku is even prepared to take a pay-cut to return to the Serie A club. It has been claimed that the Belgian's desire to leave Chelsea has been strengthened by recent issues around the club. Blues owner Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the United Kingdom and has put the club up for sale.
However, those claims are wide of the mark, as per The Daily Telegraph. The report says that Lukaku is 'angered' by speculation in Italy that he wants to leave the European champions.
Romelu Lukaku angered by claims he will take pay cut to force way out of Chelsea | @JBurtTelegraph
telegraph.co.uk/football/2022/…
The former Everton frontman feels now is the time for everyone at Chelsea to display togetherness, according to the aforementioned source. Lukaku, who intends to stay in London, is reportedly appalled by claims that he will look to take advantage of the club's current crisis.
Chelsea are said to have assured Lukaku, as well as other players in the squad, that they are pushing to stabilize the ongoing issues. The Belgian, on the other hand, has no intention of turning his back on the club.
What did Chelsea star Lukaku say in interview with Sky Italia?
Lukaku's interview with Sky Italia sparked controversy back in December. Here is what the Belgian said in the explosive exchange:
"Physically I am fine. But I'm NOT happy with the situation at Chelsea. [Thomas] Tuchel has chosen to play with another system. I won't give up, I'll be professional. I am not happy with the situation but I am professional and I can't give up now".
I really hope from bottom of my heart to return to Inter not at the end of my career, but when I'm still at top level to win more together".
Lukaku has made 31 appearances across all competitions for Tuchel's side so far this season. He scored 11 goals and provided two assists in those games.