Chelsea have never really managed to find a reliable goalscorer since Diego Costa left the club, way back in the Antonio Conte era. Since then, we have seen plenty try, and fail, to lead the line for the Blues. This includes the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Timo Werner and Alvaro Morata. Strikers who found success elsewhere but could not get the job done at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea already have a deal in place to sign Emanuel Emegha from Strasbourg. But he is not a proven goalscorer at the highest level, either.
Julian Alvarez does fall under that category. While he was outshone at Manchester City by Erling Haaland, the Argentine still managed to score 36 goals for the club. His heroics also helped Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. And he has been even better at Atletico Madrid.
This season, Alvarez has scored 9 goals and provided 4 assists in 15 appearances for Atletico Madrid. Last season, he scored 29 goals and provided 8 assists for them across all competitions. It is this kind of player that Chelsea need leading the line for them. And there might be a chance to sign him in the near future.
Journalist drops Julian Alvarez to Chelsea transfer news
As reported by The Chelsea Chronicle, Graeme Bailey said:
"Alvarez has quietly emerged as one of the best strikers in Europe. He has been very good for Atletico, outstanding even, but intermediaries are making it clear that he is considering his options.
“Whilst Barca seems the most likely option for him — PSG and Chelsea are very much keeping close tabs on the situation. I am told that clearly Barca and PSG appeal to Alvarez, but don’t rule out a move to London with Chelsea.
“There is also Enzo Maresca. He and Alvarez worked well together during their time together at Manchester City. It’s one to keep an eye on. If Alvarez does become available this summer, I wouldn’t dismiss Chelsea at all."
So, there seems to be heavy competition for the signature of Alvarez. That being said, one would imagine that Atletico Madrid might be more open to seeing the Argentine join Chelsea or PSG over direct rivals FC Barcelona.
Also, the presence of Enzo Fernandez and Alejandro Garnacho might play a factor in helping Chelsea, if they do try to sign Alvarez. We believe that he would be a great signing for the Blues, as he is already proven in the Premier League, as well as at the European and world level.
That being said, let's see how things go for Chelsea's current striker. Joao Pedro has been shaky but is very good when performing at his best. On the other hand, Liam Delap has had a tough time finding the back of the net, although his presence provides Maresca with a different option. Marc Guiu has been getting some game time lately as well.