Chelsea 'want to sign Romelu Lukaku as soon as possible'

Chelsea are looking to sign Romelu Lukaku "as soon as possible", with the Blues stepping up their pursuit of the Inter Milan forward, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Inter have thus far resisted the interest, but the Belgium international has now allegedly told the Italian champions that he is keen on the idea of returning to Stamford Bridge.

When questioned on the recent speculation on Wednesday night, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel branded Lukaku "a fantastic player" but refused to be drawn on a possible move to London.

According to Romano, the Champions League holders are determined to sign the 28-year-old in the near future and are expected to offer in excess of €110m (£93.5m) for his services.

Lukaku previously represented Chelsea between 2011 and 2014 but found it difficult to make his mark at the club, failing to find the back of the net in 15 appearances.

The Belgian has scored 64 goals in 95 appearances for Inter since arriving from Manchester United, though, including 30 goals in 44 outings in all competitions during the 2020-21 campaign.