Chelsea agree Romelu Lukaku transfer with surprise Premier League rivals after losing patience with Napoli

Following his £97.5 million ($124.9m) return to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2021, seven years after he departed the Blues, Lukaku's future is a huge concern for Chelsea for the third summer in a row as the Belgian striker has failed to make a mark on the club. The Blues are now looking to move him on on a permanent deal following two straight loans with Inter Milan and Roma.

Italian publication Il Mattino (via CalcioNapoli24) has now reported that Aston Villa and Chelsea have agreed terms over a move for Lukaku as the Blues want to offload the Belgian as soon as possible due to his £325,000-per-week wages. However, the report suggests that the striker is not interested in a move to Birmingham as he waits for Napoli.

Napoli and Chelsea have been in talks over a move for Lukaku as new Gli Azzurri boss Antonio Conte wants to sign a reliable striker, with Victor Osimhen linked with a move the other way. However, Chelsea are 'losing patience' with the Serie A side as they have been delaying the move.

Chelsea reportedly wanted to have Lukaku's future sorted before the start of their United States pre-season tour. However, they now would like the matter wrapped up before the start of the Premier League season, with Manchester City visiting Stamford Bridge on August 18.