Chelsea's lingering Romelu Lukaku resentment as three-man transfer shortlist emerges

Chelsea's lingering resentment from Romelu Lukaku's infamous interview has unsettled the Belgian as Thomas Tuchel prepares to weigh up his striker options in the summer.

The 28-year-old was virtually was non-existent in the Blues' 1-0 win over Crystal Palace as Hakim Ziyech scored a late winner at Selhurst Park.

Lukaku touched the ball just six times in open play against Patrick Viera's men - a Premier League record or the fewest involvements in a single game for a player who has completed 90 minutes - as his struggles continue in his debut season at Stamford Bridge.

Lukaku has ten goals in all competitions this season isn't a disastrous strike rate, but it's worth noting that he hasn't scored a Premier League goal since December - which happens to coincide with his controversial interview with the Italian media as he claimed that he wasn't happy following his £97million move from Inter Milan.

He did net two of Chelsea's three goals in Abu Dhabi to clinch the club's first Club World Cup but something is clearly bothering him.

The Daily Mail states an exit is unlikely but if Lukaku's poor form persists, it would be 'negligent' if Chelsea didn't consider trio Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane who are are obtainable this summer.

Lukaku's lack of involvement on Saturday, as well as his body language, suggests he doesn't want to be at Stamford Bridge and his interview last month would back up that belief.

Lukaku went on record to say he wasn't satisfied being in and out of Tuchel's side.

The former Everton striker also expressed his desire to return to Inter one day as he admitted regret over the way he left the San Siro club.

He told Sky Sport Italia: "Physically I am fine, even better than before.