Chelsea news: Pundit issues verdict on Romelu Lukaku forcing Thomas Tuchel U-turn after source reveal
Romelu Lukaku will not return to the Chelsea lineup and will be sold this summer, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed manager Thomas Tuchel “trusts” Kai Havertz over the 28-year-old Belgian.
A recruitment source told this site on Monday (18 April) that Lukaku would jump at the chance to rejoin Inter Milan this summer.
The Italian side are believed to be interested in the hitman – but prefer a loan deal due to the costs involved in a permanent move.
Speaking on ITV during coverage of Chelsea’s 2-0 win in the FA Cup semi-final, former Blues star Joe Cole claimed Lukaku has “six weeks to save his career” at Stamford Bridge.
However, Whelan insisted the former Man United striker will not be restored to the lineup in the final weeks of the season.
“It seems to me that Tuchel has found a nice, settled side with Havertz through the middle,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“I think he trusts him more than he trusts Lukaku. That’s the biggest thing.
“You can’t play someone just because he’s your record signing. Havertz has put in some fantastic performances and made a real improvement in the side.
“I can’t see Tuchel changing the system or the personnel. He probably knows what he wants for Lukaku, he’s assessed the situation, and there’ll be a parting of the ways this summer.
“I think Lukaku hasn’t helped himself, but biting the bullet and putting this speculation behind them will be the best thing for Chelsea – even if they take a loss on him.”
Lukaku cost a reported £97million last summer.
He has netted just 12 goals in 37 games this term.
In other news, expert “sure” on Conor Gallagher move amid “£30m” claim.