In recent times, we have rarely seen Chelsea go out and try to sign world-class players. Yes, the likes of Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo might have turned out to be of that level after joining the Blues. But at the point when they were signed, that was not the case. And this lack of ambition to go after the best in the world has been a point of frustration for many fans.
The last time Chelsea pulled off a move of that magnitude was when they signed Romelu Lukaku, fresh off his Serie A-winning heroics with Inter Milan. We all know how badly that played out for the Blues in the long run. But at that point in time, the Belgian was considered one of the best strikers on the planet and the ambition was clear to see. Unfortunately, it has been missing under this new ownership.
The rumours continue to link Chelsea with some of the biggest names in world football though. One of them is Vinicius Junior, someone who was unlucky not to win the Ballon d'Or not too long ago, but now finds himself staring at an uncertain future at Real Madrid.
As reported by Fichajes, Chelsea have overtaken everyone and become the favourites to sign Vinicius from Real Madrid in the summer. An offer of around €150 million has been suggested if the Brazilian international is confirmed not to renew his contract with Los Blancos.
Chelsea named favourites to sign world-class Real Madrid player
Vinicius' contract situation is the primary reason why he has been constantly linked with a move away from Real Madrid lately. It is believed to run out in the summer of 2027, and talks over an extension are rumoured to have stalled.
Real Madrid will know better than most the risks of allowing a player's contract to run deep, having signed top players like Kylian Mbappe, Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba and more as free agents. So, if an extension cannot be agreed upon before next summer, they might consider parting ways with Vinicius.
The big question is, will Chelsea be looking to make an offer at that point? If the reports coming out of Spain are accurate, then they will. But it just does not feel like something the new ownership will entertain.