Chelsea are reportedly forging ahead in their pursuit of Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, seeking to outmanoeuvre fellow suitors Arsenal and Barcelona. Under the ownership of the Todd Boehly-led consortium, the Blues have invested over £1 billion since May 2022, with a clear strategy to bring promising young talent to Stamford Bridge.
Despite this heavy outlay, Chelsea have found themselves short of Premier League glory, finishing sixth and fourth in previous campaigns. Currently sitting fifth, they recently parted ways with manager Enzo Maresca, appointing Liam Rosenior in a bid to revitalise their fortunes.
Aiming to bolster their squad further, Chelsea have identified key positions requiring reinforcement, notably targeting a goalkeeper, centre-back, and striker. Julian Alvarez, formerly of Manchester City and a figure of interest to Arsenal, is reportedly their primary target to enhance their attacking options.
Jorge Baravalle of ESPN highlights that Chelsea have the “most advanced contacts” for Alvarez, with one of his representatives spotted in London last week. Baravalle states: “There is much chatter involving Barcelona and Arsenal, but Chelsea are quietly making headway for Julian Alvarez.”
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke notes Atletico Madrid’s valuation of Alvarez at £80 million or more, given his stature as a former South American Footballer of the Year and a proven Premier League title-winner with Manchester City. Though Alvarez remains contracted with Atletico until 2030, any suggestion of his willingness to depart would stir interest from Europe’s elite clubs, with Chelsea seemingly leading the charge for his signature.