Chelsea is moving closer to finalizing a deal with Atletico Madrid for promising striker Samu Omorodion before the summer transfer window closes. According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the Blues are negotiating a £43 million (€50 million) transfer.
Chelsea’s Striker Dilemma
Chelsea’s struggles with finding a consistent striker have been well-documented. Despite recent additions like Marc Guiu and Omari Kellyman, former Leicester City chief Enzo Maresca is keen on bringing in more experience. This summer has seen a flurry of activity under Maresca, including signings like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Tosin Adarabioyo, yet the striker position remains a concern.
Omorodion Back on Chelsea’s Radar
Di Marzio reports that Chelsea is now seriously pursuing the 20-year-old Omorodion, who has netted two goals in seven appearances for Spain’s Under-21s. Negotiations for the €50 million deal are intensifying.
In a separate but concurrent move, Conor Gallagher is poised to transfer to Atletico Madrid for £34 million. Di Marzio clarifies that while the two deals are happening simultaneously, they are independent transactions.
Omorodion’s Journey
Omorodion, a product of Granada’s academy, spent last season on loan at Deportivo Alaves due to limited opportunities at Atletico Madrid. During his loan spell, he scored nine goals and provided one assist in 36 appearances, totaling 2,096 minutes on the field.
The Lukaku Factor
Returning from his loan at AS Roma, Romelu Lukaku may stay at Stamford Bridge due to Chelsea’s high asking price. This development could impact Chelsea’s striker options going forward.
Omorodion vs. N. Jackson – 23/24 League Stats
Statistic Omorodion Jackson
Minutes 1,922 2,810
Goals 8 14
Assists 1 5
Shots per game 1.9 2.3
Aerials won per game 1.8 1
Dribbles per game 0.6 1.5
Overall rating 6.42 7.07
Other Transfer Targets
Napoli’s Victor Osimhen has been linked with Chelsea, but according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, any potential move for the Nigerian striker could take time, which Chelsea may not have.
Chelsea in the Race for Celtic’s Matt O’Riley
Chelsea is also eyeing Celtic’s Danish midfielder Matt O’Riley. The 23-year-old, who has attracted interest from Crystal Palace, Southampton, and Brighton & Hove Albion, boasts an impressive record of 19 goals and 18 assists in 49 appearances last season. West Ham United is also keen on O’Riley, aiming for a quick deal as the new season approaches.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s pursuit of Samu Omorodion reflects their urgent need to bolster their striking options. With negotiations progressing, the Blues hope to finalize the deal and address their long-standing striker issues. As the transfer window draws to a close, Chelsea’s proactive approach could significantly strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
