Chelsea have been dealt a transfer blow as Inter Milan have reportedly ruled out a sale for prolific striker Romelu Lukaku.
The Blues are said to consider a move for the Belgium international their most realistic chance of signing a world-class attacker this summer.
Lukaku scored 24 goals and set up 11 more in 36 Serie A appearances in 2020-21 to help fire the Nerazzurri to their first Scudetto triumph in 11 years.
However, the Italian champions are under pressure to raise around €80m (£69m) through player sales as they attempt to balance their books.
Former Chelsea ace Lukaku, who failed to make the grade in his previous spell at Stamford Bridge, was therefore expected to be available to purchase ahead of next season.
According to Italian media agency ANSA, though, that is not the case as Inter know just how important Lukaku is to the team, and no amount will make them change their mind.
Chelsea may therefore have to switch focus to other targets, with Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski another possible high-profile option.
Daniel Lewis
