Chelsea are stepping up their interest in Argentina striker Julian Alvarez, with the Premier League club exploring a potential move for the Atletico Madrid forward.
Reports from Spain and England this week suggest the Blues have already opened talks, while Atletico are preparing for a tough negotiation over one of Europe’s most in-demand attackers.
The race for Alvarez
The 25-year-old has been in excellent form since joining Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024.
Over 18 months in La Liga, he has scored freely, with 40 goals and 13 assists in all competitions. His performances have attracted interest from several big clubs – not only Chelsea but also Barcelona, Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
Chelsea’s bid is reported to be in the region of €85 million, a significant figure but well below Atletico’s likely asking price.
Spanish media have suggested that the Madrid club could demand as much as €150 million to let Alvarez leave.
Atletico are under no immediate pressure to sell and have a long contract in place, which gives them strong negotiating power.
Despite the gap between offer and valuation, Chelsea appear determined to push ahead.
New Blues boss Liam Rosenior is said to want additional firepower up front, even though the squad already includes a mix of strikers such as Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Marc Guiu.
The club’s recruitment team is also monitoring other attacking and midfield targets as they look to rebuild after a mixed season.
A return to the Premier League
There are signs that Alvarez himself would be open to a return to the Premier League.
Sources close to the transfer discussions claim the Argentina international likes the idea of returning to England, where he enjoyed success with Manchester City.
Reports even mention that Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, Alvarez’s Argentina team-mate, has allegedly spoken with him about the possibility of playing together at Stamford Bridge.
Other clubs remain in the picture, and the interest of Barcelona and Bayern Munich could complicate matters.
Chelsea must act quickly if they hope to land Alvarez, who would bring pace, goals and Premier League experience to their attack.
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