Chelsea Kick Off Season Without 'Biggest Headache' as Lukaku Departs on Deadline Day
Chelsea's Summer Clear-Out Continues With Striker's Departure
Chelsea have bid farewell to their "biggest headache" after Romelu Lukaku sealed a loan move to Inter Milan on the eve of the transfer deadline.
Lukaku Returns to Familiar Surroundings
The Belgian striker has returned to the club where he enjoyed a prolific spell between 2019 and 2021.
Lukaku scored 64 goals in 95 appearances for Inter before making a £97.5 million move back to Chelsea last summer.
Troubled Return to Stamford Bridge
However, his second stint at Chelsea proved to be a disappointment, with the striker struggling for form and fitness.
Lukaku also fell out of favor with manager Thomas Tuchel, who publicly criticized his performances and attitude.
Chelsea's Summer Clear-Out
Lukaku's departure is the latest in a series of high-profile exits from Chelsea this summer.
- Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)
- Andreas Christensen (Barcelona)
- Timo Werner (RB Leipzig)
Chelsea have already signed several new players, including Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Marc Cucurella.
Chelsea's Attacking Options
With Lukaku gone, Chelsea now have several options up front.
- Kai Havertz
- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
- Armando Broja
Havertz is expected to lead the line for Chelsea this season, supported by Aubameyang and Broja.
Tuchel's Relief
Tuchel will be relieved to see the back of Lukaku, who had become a major source of frustration for the German coach.
Tuchel has publicly stated that Lukaku was not part of his plans for the future, and the striker's departure will give the Chelsea manager a chance to reshape his team.
Chelsea's Season Prospects
Chelsea will be hoping for a strong start to the new season after a disappointing campaign last year.
The Blues finished third in the Premier League and lost the FA Cup and Carabao Cup finals.
With Lukaku out of the picture, Chelsea will be looking to their new signings to help them challenge for major honors this season.
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