LONDON: Romelu Lukaku returned to Chelsea today with a club record £ 97 million from Inter Milan, seven years after finishing his stint at Stamford Bridge.

The Belgian striker was a key pillar for Inter to win the Serie A title after 11 years last season but the Italian giants’ financial problems forced them to sell the most valuable asset to the Premier League club.

“I am happy and grateful to be back at this amazing club,” said Lukaku, who signed a five -year contract.

“It’s been a long journey for me: I came here as a boy who still has a lot to learn, now I’m back with a lot of experience and more mature.

“The way the club is in line with my ambitions at the age of 28 and just won Serie A. I think this opportunity comes at the right time and I hope we will create a lot of success together.”

Lukaku scored 64 goals in two seasons in Italy and immediately became a hero at the San Siro.

But the 28 -year -old also has a good record in the Premier League when he scored 113 goals with Manchester United, Everton and West Brom.

Lukaku’s career, however, did not start well at Chelsea when he failed to score in 15 appearances.