Romelu Lukaku looks set to return to England at the end of the season with Roma unwilling to pursue a permanent transfer for the Chelsea loanee, according to a report.
Following a tumultuous summer in which Lukaku severed ties with Inter Milan and Juventus, the Belgian opted for a 12-month loan to Roma without the provision for a permanent transfer option.
Despite the Belgium international enjoying a strong season in Serie A with 18 goals across all competitions, Roma seem unlikely to meet the £37m asking price required to secure Lukaku's permanent signature.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, there are concerns about the 30-year-old's price tag, which will likely lead to him being returned to Chelsea at the end of this season.
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Roma hesitant to make Lukaku loan permanent
The report adds that the Serie A outfit are hesitant to commit to such a significant financial outlay for a player whose substantial wage demands would likely double the expense of any potential permanent agreement.
It is understood that Lukaku is keen on remaining with Roma and aims to sway their decision through a series of impressive performances from now until the end of the season.
With Lukaku having two years remaining on his Chelsea contract, a permanent departure appears imminent. The Blues are likely seeking to cash in on the Belgian international not only to regain losses but also to allocate funds for a new striker.
Mauricio Pochettino's side have been linked with several strikers in the lead-up to the summer transfer market, including the likes of Napoli's Victor Osimhen and RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko.
In addition, offloading the 30-year-old attacker would significantly boost Chelsea's efforts to navigate the Profit & Sustainability Rules.
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Lukaku on the radar of Saudi Pro League teams
Clubs in Saudi Arabia showed interest in Lukaku last summer, and a move to the Middle East remains a possibility, especially after the striker admitted that he would consider joining the Saudi Pro League last year.
Italy is poised to gain an extra European qualification place next season through coefficient rankings, with Roma currently leading the race to secure that spot.
After beating AC Milan, I Giallorossi are also still in contention to win the Europa League, which would grant them automatic entry to the Champions League group stage next season.
Devesh Jaganath
