Romelu Lukaku has confirmed he will stay at Inter Milan next season as he puts rumours of a Chelsea return to bed.
The striker's future at the San Siro was thrown in doubt when Antonio Conte left the club last week with Simoni Inzaghi named as his successor from Lazio.
The Belgian notched a 30-goal season as Inter claimed the Serie A title under the Italian manager.
Chelsea were reportedly one of Lukaku's suitors as Thomas Tuchel's men look for a proven goalscorer in the upcoming window for their Premier League title bid next season.
But the 28-year-old has ruled out the possibility of going back to Stamford Bridge for a second spell as he insists he will stay with Inter.
Who should Chelsea target now as Romelu Lukaku decides to stay at Inter Milan? Comment below
Lukaku revealed he's held positive talks with new boss Inzaghi and is looking forward to the challenge of Inter trying to retain their title next term.
“I am staying at Inter. I've already had contact with new manager Inzaghi. Maybe I shouldn't say that yet... but it was a very positive conversation.
“There's also the challenge of doing it again (winning the league with Inter). I feel good at Inter.”
Chelsea's main priority this summer is to sign a striker after Timo Werner's struggles in front of goal during his debut season and Tammy Abraham set to leave the club.
But it appears they will have to turn their attention elsewhere with Lukaku seemingly out of the running.
Roman Abramovich was reportedly driving the push to bring Lukaku back to Chelsea and was a part of the talks even though he does not usually get involved personally in transfer discussions.
Erling Haaland and Harry Kane are alternatives for Chelsea but are both more complicated to get over the line.
