Inter Milan have reportedly tabled an improved €30m (£25.7m) offer for Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku.
The 30-year-old recently completed a season-long loan deal with Inter, who are hoping to bring him back to the club for the third time in his career.
Lukaku, who first joined the Nerazzurri in the summer of 2019, was part of the Inter side that won the Serie A title under Antonio Conte in the 2020-21 season.
The Belgium international subsequently joined Chelsea in 2021, but his second spell with the West London club has failed to live up to expectations.
Lukaku had a fractious relationship with Thomas Tuchel after he gave an interview to Italian TV where he admitted his dissatisfaction with the German's tactical system.
The striker was subsequently loaned back to Inter last summer and went on to score 14 goals and provide seven assists in 37 appearances.
Simone Inzaghi's side are looking to secure Lukaku's services on a permanent transfer, but their first offer of £23m was rejected.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Inter have now submitted an improved bid said to be worth a total of €30m (£25.7m).
The Champions League runners-up are now set to hold discussions with Chelsea over a deal as the two clubs look to reach a final decision on Lukaku's future.
The former Manchester United forward is keen to remain in European football despite attracting interest from the Saudi Pro League.
A recent report claimed that Lukaku has no intention to return to pre-season training with Chelsea, as he holds out for a summer move.
Although there have also been links with Italian giants Juventus, he is still favouring a permanent transfer to Inter.
During his two spells with the Nerazzurri, the Belgian striker has racked up 78 goals and registered 23 assists in 132 matches. body check tags ::