Chelsea transfer news: Lukaku 'takes stance' ahead of potential exit

Ever since a disagreement with Thomas Tuchel during his first season back at Stamford Bridge, Lukaku has spent successive loan spells in Italy.

A reunion with Inter Milan was facilitated for the 2022-23 campaign before last season was spent with Roma, scoring a combined total of 35 goals.

However, with two years left on the Belgium international's contract, Chelsea are increasingly eager to cash in on the 31-year-old as soon as possible.

Whether a permanent exit materialises is largely dependent on if Lukaku's asking price is met, although it is unclear what price-tag has been set.

Lukaku makes transfer decision

A figure in the region of £35m has been previously mentioned, but co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital may be willing to compromise if it means reducing their outgoings.

As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Lukaku is currently earning €11m (£9.27m) (net) per season at Chelsea at a time when the Blues must bolster their position with the Premier League's and UEFA's financial regulations.

Given his desire to move to Napoli, though, the frontman is prepared to take a significant wage cut down to €6m (£5.06m).

While Napoli could see their coffers boosted by the sale of Victor Osimhen, Lukaku taking such a stance can only benefit the negotiation progress when they have no European football on their calendar for 2024-25.

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly keen to sign the Nigeria international providing that they can agree terms with Napoli, who are said to be holding out for a fee of £84m.

Why does Lukaku want to join Napoli?

Although Lukaku is settled with life in Italy when he plies his trade there, Napoli is his priority courtesy of his past relationship with Antonio Conte.

Between 2019 and 2021, Lukaku scored an incredible 64 goals in Conte's Inter side, helping the club win the 2020-21 Serie A title.

That remains the standout period of Lukaku's career and Napoli hope that the pair can rekindle former glories at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.