Stoke City will not be able to sign Chelsea recruit Romelu Lukaku on loan because of Premier League rules.
The Potters were believed to be interested in bringing the 18-year old Belgian striker to the Britannia Stadium on a short-term deal but they have failed in their bid because of a top flight stipulation.
Premier League Rule M.7.1 reads: "A Temporary Transfer to a Club may not take place in the Transfer Window in which the Transferor Club acquired the Player's registration."
It was unknown if Chelsea or Lukaku were interested in the deal but it is quite clear that the former Anderlecht man will remain at Stamford Bridge despite the Potters' interest.
