Chelsea Transfer News: Latest on Romelu Lukaku and Victor Lindelof Rumours
Everton striker Romelu Lukaku is reportedly fixated on a return to former club Chelsea in an attempt to complete what he views to be "unfinished business." Meanwhile, the Blues are said to have told Benfica they'll pay Victor Lindelof's release clause.
Lukaku left Stamford Bridge for Goodison Park two years ago, having failed to make his mark with Chelsea, and the Sun's Mike McGrath has now reported the player is "determined" to head back to west London.
The Belgium international was with Chelsea for a total of three years after joining from boyhood club Anderlecht in 2011, although two of those were spent on loan with West Bromwich Albion and Everton.
What's more, the Telegraph's Matt Law recently wrote Chelsea are also interested in a reunion this summer, except the Toffees' asking price could prove to be a major stumbling block:
Everton are no longer thought to be as desperate for funds as they once were thanks to British-Iranian businessman Farhad Moshiri, the club's new majority shareholder.
Joe Strange of MailOnline recently spoke of the high hopes awaiting those at Goodison Park, and the retention of Lukaku's services is sure to be a high priority for the Merseysiders:
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is understood to still be in the market for another striker despite already bringing Marseille forward Michy Batshuayi to Stamford Bridge for a £33 million sum this summer.
Lukaku appears relaxed about his future prospects, however. Ex-Chelsea defender Mario Melchiot recently posted footage of the Belgian holidaying with fellow in-demand superstar and Juventus talisman Paul Pogba:
At the other end of the pitch, Chelsea have reportedly informed Benfica they're happy to meet the £25 million release clause of centre-back Lindelof, according to Tony Banks of the Daily Express.
Portuguese newspaper A Bola recently featured the Sweden international on their front page under growing speculation the Blues will fork out the necessary fund to recruit Lindelof, per 101GreatGoals:
Former Vasteras star Lindelof enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Lisbon last season and has made 26 appearances for the Eagles, featuring in central defence, central midfield and right-back.
Chelsea captain John Terry is expected to see his role diminish under Conte this season, and Lindelof could join the likes of Kurt Zouma and Gary Cahill in strengthening the Blues' core for the coming campaign.
