That's according to journalist and Blues expert Dan Levene.

He says the Everton forward was the target of Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo - not Conte.

The champions' boss and his future have been at the subject of serious questions in recent weeks.

The Italian was said to be unhappy with his club's transfer business.

He also wanted a new contract and appeared to be unsettled at Stamford Bridge.

But Levene says the decision not to sign Lukaku, who seemed nailed on to join Chelsea, is proof Conte is now being backed by owner Roman Abramovich.

He tweeted: "Sorry to disrupt the consensus of woe, but Lukaku [is] Emenalo's choice. Not Conte's.

"Want evidence of the boss being backed? You just got it."

United have struck a £75m deal with Everton for Lukaku.

Starsport understands personal terms on a £250,000-a-week contract have also been signed off and the deal will be announced within 24 hours.