Chelsea finds itself in one of the most bizarre financial crises in soccer history after owner Roman Abramovich had his assets frozen by the UK government due to ties to Russia and Vladimir Putin. After financial documents were released following Inter Milan's debt last season, it was reportedly discovered that Chelsea has yet to pay the Italian side a significant portion of Romelu Lukaku's transfer fee.

According to reports, the Blues still owe Inter Milan as much as £71 million in the Lukaku deal, funds were initially planned to be paid in increments. Lukaku was purchased back by Chelsea last summer in a club-record fee worth a reported £95 million, however, they have yet to come close to paying off his total sum. The transfer was expected to be paid up in full by the end of this year, with multiple payments of £20 million expected to cover the cost.

The Daily Mail reports that Abramovich's financial statements showed outstanding transfer debts of £104 million, much of which is believed to stem from the Lukaku deal. The debts are due to be paid one year from June 1, 2021.

Rumors recently flared up regarding Lukaku's willingness to return to Inter Milan and take a significant pay cut to do so. His return to Chelsea has thus far not gone to plan, and a damning interview released late in 2021 stirred up quite the controversy after the Belgian striker was seen dropping heaps of praise on Milan, and vowing to one day return to the club.

This season in the Premier League, Lukaku has scored just 5 goals in 18 matches and has 9 goals in 29 matches throughout all competitions.