Romelu Lukaku interested in loan move if Chelsea chances are limited

 

Ben Rumsby
Friday 20 July 2012 13:35 BST
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Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku
Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku (GETTY IMAGES)

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Romelu Lukaku has reiterated his desire to leave Chelsea on loan next season if he fails to secure regular football with the European champions.

Lukaku, 19, has been heavily linked with a temporary switch to Fulham but he staked a claim for a first-team spot at Stamford Bridge with a double in the opening match of the Blues' US tour this week.

The Belgium star spent most of his maiden Chelsea season kicking his heels, much to the frustration of the £18million signing from Anderlecht, who was unable to be loaned out under FIFA rules.

And while the departures of Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou - and the likely exit of Florent Malouda - could open the door for him next season, the Blues have been linked with a wealth of attacking talent this summer, including strikers Edinson Cavani and Hulk.

Lukaku told Sky Sports News: "If I can stay here at Chelsea and be part of the starting XI and score a lot of goals for the club and make the team win, that's good for me and for the club as well.

"But if I can go on loan and play in another team and score goals and then come back and explode, it will be good as well.

"I just keep my feet grounded and work hard each day and then after the tour we will see what will happen."

Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo has confirmed he will make a decision on Lukaku's immediate future following the club's pre-season tour.

The Champions League winners have been linked with a host of new players this summer and are said to be on the verge of tying up deals for Brazil star Oscar and Eden Hazard's younger brother, Thorgan.

They have also been snubbed so far in their efforts to sign Wigan's Victor Moses, according to Latics chairman Dave Whelan.

Shakhtar Donetsk's Willian has been touted again as another potential signing, as has Marseille full-back Cesar Azpilicueta.

Speculation over Hulk has been more muted in recent days and his agent has revealed the determination of Porto to keep hold of the 25-year-old.

Teodoro Fonseca told Record: "I've been talking frequently with Porto officials.

"They and their manager count on Hulk and they told me that they want to build a team around Hulk that is capable of winning the Champions League."

PA

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