Romelu Lukaku transfer: Chelsea striker 'proud' of Juventus interest but is focused on Belgium in World Cup

Chelsea striker has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge

(GETTY IMAGES)

Romelu Lukaku has admitted he is "proud" of the interest shown in him by Italian giants Juventus, but is concentrating on the task at hand.

The 21-year-old will make his first appearance in an international tournament against Algeria on Tuesday, while Belgium play their first tournament match since 2002.

After a brilliant season with Everton Lukaku may have expected to find himself in Jose Mourinho's Chelsea plans, but instead the powerful striker is being linked away from Stamford Bridge with Diego Costa expected to arrive as first choice.

"I'm proud of Juventus' interest for me, but I just think of Belgium now," he told Sky Italia.

"It's been 12 years that we haven't played in a big tournament, so now we are here and hopefully we will show the people that we can play good football."

Belgium reached the first knockout stage in 2002, losing to eventual winners Brazil 2-0.

But this Belgian team is vastly different and are being tipped by many to be the tournament's dark horses - English fans will be familiar with the squad, with 12 of them currently plying their trade in the Premier League and another two with Premier League experience.

"We don't feel much pressure, we are a young team, we are relaxed, everybody is confident in themselves.

Diego Costa will provide competition for Lukaku at Chelsea (Getty Images)

"We have a good team, we have already played for four years together so we are ready now.

"We all started [our preparations] in Belgium before we left so we know how it is to play in Belgium but it's obviously a great moment to play for your country and especially at a World Cup.

"We are all very proud we are Belgian so now we have a chance to represent our country at the greatest competition in the world."