Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez is “in the sights” of Chelsea, according to reports in the Argentinian media.
Newspaper La Nacion claims that the Blues are preparing a €100m (£86m) bid for the 28-year-old ahead of the summer transfer window.
Martinez is one of Europe’s top forwards, having scored 198 goals during his professional career.
His international teammate, Lionel Messi, even suggested that Martinez should have been in contention for a top individual prize a couple of years ago.
“He had a spectacular year, scored in the final, and was the top scorer in the Copa America; he deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone.”
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Why a move for Martinez is unlikely
Despite the reports from Argentina, the chances of an offer of that size being made for the Inter star are pretty low.
First of all, Martinez will turn 29 at the start of next season, and Chelsea having only considered paying substantial transfer fees for players 25 or under since the Todd Boehly/Clearlake Capital takeover.
Secondly, the Blues have recently announced substantial losses, and there is a danger they could fall foul of UEFA’s Financial Fair Play rules, having already breached the regulations once before.
Chelsea are expected to target other strikers
While the prospect of Martinez moving to Stamford Bridge would be exciting, the London club are expected to focus on younger and cheaper options. One such name is Brentford’s Igor Thiago.
The Brazilian has scored 21 goals in all competitions this season, and he is still only 24 years of age. The recruitment department are said to have a longstanding interest in the player as well.
Palmeiras’ Vitor Roque is another target that has been mentioned in the Brazilian press, although there hasn’t been any confirmation about the club’s interest from sources in the UK.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here