New doubts on Romelu Lukaku West Brom future

Sources in Belgium claim the 19-year-old striker remains keen to stay on loan for another year to push his claims for a starting role at the 2014 World Cup.

But Lukaku is reportedly anxious to play in Europe next season – and that could scupper Albion's hopes of keeping him at The Hawthorns.

Lukaku has repeatedly left the door open for a second season with the Baggies and Albion remain keen to keep him after an impressive season in the West Midlands.

It has, so far, brought him 13 Premier League goals in just 15 starts and Lukaku's agents are said to be assessing the player's options.

If Chelsea sanction another loan, the £15million hitman could be hoping to try his luck in the Europa League or Champions League.

The player had targeted European football for the Baggies next season but a mid-season slump combined with the outcome of the domestic cup competitions has left their hopes all-but extinguished.

Lukaku played Champions League football for Anderlecht as a 17-year-old and is anxious to gain more experience before returning full-time to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are unlikely to make a decision on Lukaku's future until they appoint a successor to interim manager Rafa Benitez.

But the youngster remains unconvinced about his first-team prospects if he returns to Stamford Bridge next season.

And he is facing a crucial season for his hopes of a starting role for Belgium, who are among the dark horses for the World Cup finals in 2014.

Decisions on his future will form part of a fascinating summer surrounding the Baggies' attacking options.

Peter Odemwingie seems certain to leave following his fall-out with the club while Markus Rosenberg has so far struggled to make an impact following his arrival on a free transfer last summer.

Marc-Antoine Fortune is out of contract and appears unlikely to stay while Shane Long will enter the final year of his deal in the close season.

However, the Republic of Ireland international is in talks over an extension.