Chelsea's Thomas Tuchel, Todd Boehly 'in support of Romelu Lukaku loan exit'

Since ending his first season back at Stamford Bridge with 15 goals from 44 appearances, Lukaku has been heavily linked with a return to Inter Milan.

However, the Italian giants are not in a position to sign the Belgium international on a permanent deal, instead relying on trying to reach a compromise with Chelsea over a loan agreement.

Although it has been widely reported that the 29-year-old is prepared to take a wage cut, Chelsea are said to want to receive a £20m fee to allow Lukaku to play at San Siro during 2022-23.

According to The Telegraph, talks are well underway behind the scenes with all parties wanting to find a positive resolution.

The report claims that Boehly - who is part of a consortium which bought Chelsea at the end of last month - has already held discussions with counterparts at Inter.

Furthermore, there is optimism that an agreement could be found by the end of the week, something which would suit everyone involved as they look to progress with their other transfer plans.

Boehly is said to be fully in favour of allowing Lukaku to return to his former club, as his Tuchel who wants to bring in a new frontman as his replacement.

A report earlier this month suggested that Boehly was ready to hand full control of transfers to Tuchel, unlike was the case under Roman Abramovich.

While Armando Broja will be provided with an opportunity to impress during pre-season, a fresh face may also arrive who is more suited to Tuchel's playing style than Lukaku.

As it stands, it is unclear whether a straight loan will materialise, or if Chelsea will attempt to sign a Inter player in part-exchange.

A recent report has suggested that Milan Skriniar may be fit the bill, Chelsea in need of at least one new centre-back at a time when the Slovakia international has 12 months remaining on his contract.

Netherlands international Stefan de Vrij falls into the same category, but both players are also being linked with a wide range of other clubs.

Although the Premier League outfit could be open to signing Lautaro Martinez, neither Inter or the player may welcome an exit at this stage.