Chelsea is reportedly exploring the possibility of loaning Romelu Lukaku back to Inter Milan, with a unique twist involving Lautaro Martinez. Lukaku, who returned to Stamford Bridge last summer for a substantial £97.5 million, has expressed his desire to return to Inter Milan.

According to Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea is requesting £21 million for the potential loan deal. To sweeten the arrangement, Chelsea might include an Inter player in the deal, with Martinez emerging as a potential candidate.

Martinez, the 24-year-old Argentine striker, showcased his goal-scoring prowess last season, netting 21 times in Serie A. His partnership with Lukaku in the previous season resulted in a formidable duo that notched up a combined total of 41 goals.

Lukaku’s public statements in December hinted at his desire to reunite with Martinez, stating, “Lautaro Martinez coming here with me at Chelsea in the future? No… Lautaro, you can stay in Milan, I’ll be back there.”

If a direct swap is not feasible, Chelsea is reportedly eyeing Inter’s center-backs Milan Skriniar and Alessandro Bastoni. Tottenham is also interested in Skriniar, while Manchester United is keeping tabs on Bastoni, valued at £50 million.

As Chelsea navigates potential moves in the transfer market, the Lukaku loan deal with Inter, potentially involving Martinez, adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing negotiations.