Report: Chelsea planning shock move for Inter's Lukaku

Thomas Tuchel just hoisted the Champions League trophy, but that hasn't stopped the German tactician from plotting ways to strengthen Chelsea for next season.

The 47-year-old manager is eager to boost his side's chances of defending its European crown while competing in the Premier League in 2021-22 with three signings this summer, including a possible bid to bring Romelu Lukaku back to Stamford Bridge, The Guardian's Jacob Steinberg reports.

Chelsea's odds of resigning Lukaku could be boosted by the player's seemingly uncertain future at Inter Milan. Steinberg reports the striker is considering a possible move away after manager Antonio Conte left the Nerazzurri by mutual consent last week.

Financial difficulties could also force Inter's hand, which could potentially result in Chelsea reuniting with Lukaku for less than the £74 million Inter paid to sign him from Manchester United in 2019.

Lukaku plied his trade at Chelsea from 2011-14 but was shipped out on loan multiple times, enjoying successful spells at West Bromwich Albion and Everton. He was eventually sold to Everton outright before moving to Manchester United for £75 million in 2017.

A disastrous spell at United led to a move to Inter, where the 28-year-old revived his career to once again be considered one of the world's best strikers. He scored 24 goals in 36 games last season.

Chelsea could generate the funds for Lukaku and other transfer targets through the sales of outcasts, including Tammy Abraham, Ross Barkley, Fikayo Tomori, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

The Blues have been linked to Harry Kane but aren't expected to land the English star, as Tottenham are understood to be reluctant to sell the wantaway forward to a Premier League rival.

Chelsea will reportedly also look to add depth at defense and in the midfield in the coming months.

Additionally, Steinberg reports that Chelsea are close to re-signing Tuchel, who joined the team six months ago following the dismissal of Frank Lampard, to a new contract that would keep him in London until 2023.

Chelsea are fresh off capturing their second Champions League title after beating Manchester City 1-0 in Portugal on Saturday.