Chelsea and Everton at loggerheads over Romelu Lukaku transfer as it emerges striker could hand in transfer request

Chelsea and Everton are at loggerheads over the transfer of Romelu Lukaku amid reports the striker has told friends he is ready to leave Goodison Park.

The Stamford Bridge club opened talks with the Toffees two weeks ago and saw a £57million bid for their former striker rejected over the weekend.

However, Antonio Conte has not given up hope of signing the Belgian and will instruct his new club to follow up their interest with an improved offer.

Everton are playing hardball over the fee for the player they signed from the west Londoners two years ago after a successful loan period.

Ronald Koeman’s team value the 23-year-old at a staggering £75million but Chelsea will not pay that price for the man they sold for £28million in 2014.

The Blues are thought to be willing to spend as much as £67million for the goalscorer and hold a few aces in their pack as they sit at the negotiating table.

Romelu Lukaku's 2015-16 season in pictures:

Lukaku’s transfer to Everton included certain clauses based on performance that the Blues would are due to receive, which could be factored into any deal.

Structured payments rather than one lump sum were also organised as part of the original move and these could also be considered as part of a new transfer.

Chelsea remain hopeful that this leverage over the Toffees will ensure they get their man after Real Madrid declared Alvaro Morata was not for sale to narrow their options.

Lukaku has no qualms about returning to the Bridge and feels he has unfinished business in SW6 after failing to make his mark following his move from Anderlecht.

He has scored 45 goals in his time on Merseyside and believes his growth in stature and confidence proves he is now well equipped to lead the line for Chelsea.

Conte wants to operate with two forwards next season and has already signed Lukaku’s international team-mate Michy Batshuayi from Marseille from £33million.

Diego Costa, who returned to training on Monday, is also set to remain at the club despite strong rumours he would head back to Atletico Madrid this summer.

Lukaku is now said to be considering handing in a transfer request in an attempt to force through a move to allow him to join the pair at the Bridge under new boss Conte.