Chelsea transfer chiefs have reportedly opened discussions with the representatives of a marquee Real Madrid star, and one who Los Blancos president Florentino Perez is prepared to let go this summer.
Chelsea's plans ahead of June 1 transfer transfer window
Chelsea are set for a blockbuster Premier League final day clash against Nottingham Forest to determine their European status for next season, but once their quest to qualify for the Champions League has been fulfilled, attention will begin switching to their Club World Cup campaign.
Chelsea-Premier-League Related
£60m Premier League forward has spoken to friends about joining Chelsea
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Just three points separate third and seventh following Man City's victory over Bournemouth on Wednesday. Nothing but a win will do against Forest to guarantee Chelsea's place in the Champions League next term, and grant BlueCo all the riches that come with competing in Europe's most prestigious competition.
Race for Champions League qualification with one game remaining Points
3. Man City 68
4. Newcastle 66
5. Chelsea 66
6. Aston Villa 66
7. Nottingham Forest 65
Confirming their spot will have a direct effect on their recruitment plans this summer, as already confirmed by Maresca, and it is believed that Chelsea want to get a couple of their signings through the door early.
Stamford Bridge chiefs will have a small window of opportunity, from June 1 to June 10, to strengthen their squad ahead of the CWC. Around £97 million worth of prize money is on the line if Maresca's side perform well at the tournament, leaving little wonder Chelsea wish to bolster their team and give themselves the best possible chance.
Stamford Bridge - Chelsea
A striker, centre-back and winger are believed to be among Chelsea's top priorities (Simon Phillips), with Real Madrid forward Rodrygo mentioned alongside an array of possible targets.
Despite murmurs of a £130 million price tag, Chelsea would "love" to strike a deal for Rodrygo, even if it has previously been thought of as unlikely. However, that being said, recent reports have claimed that Real are now willing to sell the Brazilian this summer.
Real Madrid's Rodrygo looks on
“Rodrygo is a new name I’m hearing, there’s nothing advanced between Chelsea and Rodrygo, but what I can tell you is that Madrid are willing to let Rodrygo go,” said journalist Ben Jacobs recently.
“He’s been forced to play at Real on the right side because of Mbappe and Vini Jr, but his best position, and where he really likes to play, is on the left side. Chelsea are aware of that market opportunity, so keep an eye on Premier League clubs and Rodrygo."
Chelsea open talks with Real Madrid forward Rodrygo
According to GOAL and journalist Ritabrata Banerjee, there's been a significant update on proceedings.
rodrygo-real-madrid
The outlet shares information that Chelsea are set to launch a "shock" bid for Rodrygo, and the west Londoners have apparently opened talks with his representatives ahead of a potential swoop.
While no formal negotiations or contacts have been held at club level, this could still represent a significant step in Chelsea's pursuit of the 24-year-old.
Rodrygo has impressed when called upon by Carlo Ancelotti this season, albeit in his undesired role. The South American attacker boasts 13 goals and 10 assists from 50 appearances in all competitions this term, leaving little doubt he would add great quality to Maresca's left-wing options, all while potentially contributing at centre-forward on occasion.