While speaking recently, Behdad Egbahli admitted that Chelsea needed to sign ‘ready-made’ players to take the next step. At least that is recognition that things cannot continue as they have at Stamford Bridge. Now, it remains to be seen if the club are able to make quality signings in the summer. Of course, things will be a lot tougher if they miss out on Champions League qualification, which seems very likely at this point.
Julian Alvarez is someone who would fit the definition of a ‘ready-made’ player. He already knows the Premier League well, from his time at Manchester City. He has been a solid performer for Atletico Madrid as well. And at the international level, he was vital to Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022 and will be an integral at the upcoming tournament as well.
Someone like Alvarez would be a dream signing for many Chelsea fans. But do the club have a realistic chance of getting him?
Barcelona are believed to be his priority. But they have their financial issues, and would struggle to meet Atletico Madrid’s asking price, believed to be north of £100 million. On the other hand, Chelsea might have another advantage that many might be overlooking.
Chelsea have one advantage in race to sign Julian Alvarez this summer
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are maintaining strong interest in Alvarez. The Blues are able to offer the Argentine a central role, something that is key to his decision-making process. He has made it clear to suitors that he wants to operate exclusively through the middle. However, their inability to secure Champions League football could make it a hard sell to the Atletico Madrid forward, but not impossible.
It remains to be seen how things go from here. It is safe to say that Chelsea are still trailing in this race. But they can offer Alvarez the chance to start up front, which does give them an advantage in that respect.
How has Alvarez done at Atletico Madrid?
Alvarez has had an interesting season at Atletico Madrid. Somehow, he has scored more goals in the Champions League than in La Liga this season.
Alvarez has nine goals and four assists in 13 Champions League games, helping Atletico Madrid reach the semi-finals. They are set to take on Arsenal there.
Overall, he has scored 19 goals and provided nine assists, which is a good return, especially in what is being considered a down season for the Argentine forward.
