There are a number of areas which could be the focus for Chelsea in this summer transfer window. The forward line is being overlooked by many, but it is hard to understand why. The Blues were nowhere near the mark in front of goal in the last few months of the 25/26 campaign. They drew a blank more often than they scored.
Joao Pedro enjoyed a great debut campaign, scoring 23 times, but his form did blow hot and cold. And other than him, the Blues did not have any striker who looked capable of leading the line consistently.
Liam Delap scored just one goal in the Premier League. Marc Guiu bearely featured after his loan deal was cut short. And despite some impressive form at academy level, the Cobham standouts did not get a look-in.
Now, it looks like Nicolas Jackson could be reintegrated into the squad. Enzo Maresca’s departure means that he might not have an issue with staying on. But his departure has not been completely ruled out either, especially if a good offer comes in. On the other hand, according to reports coming out of Italy, Chelsea have already held talks regarding a Juventus striker.
Chelsea hold talks over potential deal for Juventus striker
According to Calciomercato, negotiations for Dusan Vlahovic’s contract extension at Juventus have been dragging on for several weeks. Now, it has reached a stalemate.
Vlahovic and his entourage are believed to have been open to the possibility of a significant adjustment to his current salary. An offer of €6 million net per season plus bonuses is on the table. But the gap remains wide when it comes to the signing-on fee.
Juventus have settled on €3 million, while Vlahovic’s camp want around €8 million. This is fueled by discussions in recent weeks with Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea.
Would Dusan Vlahovic be a good signing?
Something that Vlahovic would bring is experience and proven quality. While his career at Juventus has never met expectations, he has still remained a regular for one of the biggest teams in world football for more than four years. Not many can say that.
Also, Vlahovic’s current deal is believed to be running out this summer. That makes things easier for Chelsea.
The Blues are expected to be working under a tight budget this summer. So, having the opportunity to sign someone like Vlahovic as a free agent is one they should not overlook.
Then again, it is very possible that Vlahovic could continue on at Juventus eventually or join a club like Bayern Munich or Atletico Madrid. Let’s see what the future holds for the Serbian striker.
Chelsea have been linked with Vlahovic for quite a few years though. He was compared to Erling Haaland early in his career. Since then, things have not worked out as well as many had hoped. And at this point, the striker could do with a change of scenery. Stamford Bridge and a chance to work with Xabi Alonso might provide him exactly that.