Everton are "waiting" for Chelsea target Romelu Lukaku to decide his future, according to Alan Stubbs.

The Belgian is Antonio Conte's first-choice to replace Costa, who has been told he is not needed at Stamford Bridge, and Everton are holding out for bids of £100 million for a striker who scored 25 goals in 37 Premier League games last season.

Chelsea have watched as title rivals have begun their summer spending, Manchester City and Manchester United splashing over £100m combined and Conte is keen to follow suit.

Stubbs admits the uncertainty is affecting Everton, describing the speculation as a "cloud", but is positive of the Toffees' hopes of progressing without their star striker.

"We are now waiting to see if Romelu stays or goes. The sooner that cloud is removed, whether he is staying or going, it is better for the club so they can move forward.

"Irrespective of Romelu's transfer Everton have shown they are going to be as serious as they possibly can to get into the top four - that is the aim for Everton at the moment."