Inter Milan coach Antonio Conte expressed frustration Friday at his new side's lack of attacking options but played down reports of an imminent deal for striker Romelu Lukaku "out of respect for Manchester United".

The former Juventus and Chelsea manager took over at the San Siro club at the end of May but has struggled to overhaul a bloated squad in preparation for the Champions League campaign and a tilt at the Serie A title. Belgian striker Lukaku has been strongly linked in the media with a move from Old Trafford to Italy.

But Conte refused to dwell on reports of his frustration at being unable to land the 26-year-old forward due to a disagreement over the transfer fee. "Lukaku is Manchester United's player. This is the reality. I have always liked this player, even when I was Chelsea coach and I tried to sign him then, but he is not my player as of now," Conte told reporters in Singapore on the eve of a pre-season friendly between the clubs.