Contrary to the initial plan, Romelu Lukaku did not join Chelsea for pre-season on Wednesday.

The decision for the forward to stay away from the Chelsea squad was mutually agreed upon by Lukaku and the club.

Newly appointed manager Mauricio Pochettino had previously expressed his expectation for all returning players, including Lukaku, to visit his office for an introductory conversation.

It is widely acknowledged by all parties involved that the best course of action is for the Belgian striker to move on, with Lukaku expressing his preference for a move to Inter Milan despite interest from Saudi Arabia.

By delaying Lukaku's return to London, Chelsea hopes to allow more time for the clubs to find a suitable solution.

Inter are yet to agree a deal with Chelsea but negotiations are ongoing. Chelsea leave for their US tour on 17 July and hope a deal can be reached before then.

Mauricio Pochettino will take charge of Chelsea for the first time when they start the 2023/24 Premier League season at home to Liverpool, live on Sky Sports, on Sunday August 13.

Chelsea then head to London rivals West Ham on August 19 before welcoming newly promoted Luton Town to Stamford Bridge on August 26.

Pochettino, who begins his role with the Blues on July 1, will visit his former club Tottenham on November 4 with the return fixture scheduled for February 24.