Chelsea look to HIJACK deal for €120m striker

Chelsea could reportedly hijack Barcelona’s bid to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez next summer.

The Argentina international has enjoyed a stellar spell at the Wanda Metropolitano since joining the club from Manchester City in 2024, however he has been heavily linked with a departure in recent weeks.

It’s understood that he is open to leaving Diego Simeone’s side next year and Barcelona have identified him as their priority target to replace Robert Lewandowski.

Alvarez has scored nine goals and provided four assists in 15 appearances across all competitions so far this season, and his form has also caught the attention of the Chelsea hierarchy.

That is according to transfer reporter Graeme Bailey, who told The Chelsea Chronicle: “Alvarez has quietly emerged as one of the best strikers in Europe. He has been very good for Atletico, outstanding even, but intermediaries are making it clear that he is considering his options.

“Whilst Barca seems the most likely option for him – PSG and Chelsea are very much keeping close tabs on the situation. I am told that clearly Barca and PSG appeal to Alvarez, but don’t rule out a move to London with Chelsea.

“There is also Enzo Maresca. He and Alvarez worked well together during their time together at Manchester City. It’s one to keep an eye on. If Alvarez does become available this summer, I wouldn’t dismiss Chelsea at all.”

Alvarez’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at a whopping €121.5 million – the seventh highest of any player in world football – but Atletico Madrid are reluctant to sanction a departure and the arrival of Apollo Sports Capital as their new majority owners means they are unlikely to be forced into a sale.

Julian Alvarez to join Chelsea?

Although Chelsea have emerged as possible suitors for Alvarez, a deal seems fairly unlikely given the options already at the club.

Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Marc Guiu and academy starlets Tyrique George and Shumaira Mheuka are currently competing for the centre forward berth at Stamford Bridge, while Emanuel Emegha and Dastan Satpaev will both join the club in 2026.

Furthermore, Chelsea have also been linked with Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray) and Samu Aghehowa (Porto) in recent weeks.

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