One centre-forward will definitely not be joining Chelsea this summer despite the Blues being in the market for one.
While Chelsea have already snapped up Liam Delap, the Conference League winners are still trying to bring in another striker.
Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro reportedly wants to join Chelsea, so he could be the man who comes in.
He is available at the right price and so are a few other dangerous forwards, including the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Jhon Duran.
Angelo Gabriel, Jhon Duran and Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr look on as they warm up
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Chelsea turn down chance to sign Jhon Duran
Chelsea have been linked with Gyokeres and Duran in the past, but it is unlikely that they sign either during this transfer window.
In fact, journalist Simon Phillips has claimed on his Substack Si Phillips Talks Chelsea that the Blues have rejected the opportunity to bring Duran back to England.
According to Phillips’ sources, while Chelsea do admire Duran, that ship has now sailed after previous interest.
At this moment in time, Enzo Maresca can be satisfied with his centre-forward options. However, if Nicolas Jackson departs Stamford Bridge, then the Italian will need another striker.
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It is thought that Jackson is currently attracting interest from Arsenal, who are also in the market for a new No.9.
Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea celebrates scoring
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Why Chelsea cooled interest in Jhon Duran before Saudi Arabia move
Duran joined Al-Nassr from Aston Villa in a £71m deal at the start of the year, with Chelsea showing some interest before that move.
However, according to The Athletic’s Simon Johnson, after doing some background checks into his character, Chelsea decided to cool their interest in Duran.
The Colombian has not been in Saudi Arabia for long, but he has been able to make an impact in his short time there. In 18 appearances for Al-Nassr, Duran has scored 12 goals. He now looks to have scored his last one, with a transfer to Fenerbahce seemingly on the horizon.
All things considered, Duran should have just stayed at Villa, though his bank account will probably disagree.