The effort to unlock Romelu Lukaku's Inter Milan form has potentially come to an end. Lautaro Martinez has confirmed that he wants to remain an Inter Milan player for the foreseeable future. Martinez partnered with Lukaku in Inter's league winning attack for two seasons. The pair managed 104 goals and 35 assists between them. Their partnership was hailed as formidable.
According to The Athletic, Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea are admirers of Martinez. It would make perfect sense to sign him in hopes that he unlocks the potential that we have previously seen in Romelu Lukaku. In their two years spent together, they managed a goal tally that is out of this world.
As a Chelsea fan, I could only hope that we achieve that level of productivity from the attack in the nearby future. Unfortunately, despite the plans to unlock Lukaku, Martinez has apparently made plans of his own.
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Following Argentina's 'Finalissima' victory against Italy at Wembley Stadium, Lautaro Martinez made a statement to put an end to the rumours around his future. He said,
"My plan is clear: I really want to stay at Inter next season," he told the media after the 3-0 victory for Argentina.
"I’ve not received communications from the club as of today, I want to continue at Inter next season."
It is clear that the Argentine would prefer to stay in Italy. His contract with the I Nerazzurri does not expire until 2026. It was always going to be a long shot to convince the 24-year-old to make a move to a club where his former partner has struggled, but this closes the door completely. Or does it?
Just last year, Romelu Lukaku claimed that he would not be leaving Inter Milan.
"I am staying at Inter," he told Dutch broadcaster VTM.
"I've already had contact with new manager Inzaghi. Maybe I shouldn't say that yet... but it was a very positive conversation. I feel good at Inter."
There could be a chance that Martinez has a change of heart just as Lukaku did. Lukaku's agents have been negotiating a return to Milan for the Belgian for this summer's transfer window. Despite reportedly agreeing to a pay cut for his return, Chelsea will not be selling their £97.5million striker at a big loss.
In that case, the focus must be to get the most out of the Belgian. To do so Martinez could be the best solution. Let's hope that Chelsea doesn't give up so easily despite his admission to staying put this summer.
