Chelsea to continue pursuit of Gyokeres after scouting him again
Chelsea are reportedly not giving up their pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, according to Record.
The Blues have been linked with a big-money move the Sweden international, who leads Europe’s top seven leagues in goal contributions (36 goals and 11 assists).
The 25-year-old has been a revelation since his summer move from Coventry City, where he led the Championship side to the play-offs with over 20 goals.
Per the report, Chelsea have continued to scout Gyokeres after seeing an offer rejected in January, and representatives were in attendance to watch him as Portugal beat Sweden 5-2 in their friendly clash yesterday.
The former Brighton & Hove Albion centre-forward found the back of the net, but it was not enough to stop Portugal from mauling them.
Gyokeres has a €100 million release clause that the club is trying to up to €120m with a new deal. His form could convince several clubs to take the punt after a stellar season in which he could lead the Primeira Liga side to the title.
However, it will be another unwise decision from Chelsea’s directors to shell that much to sign a player they could have signed for around €25m last summer.
Apart from the fact that it would be an unwise decision, it makes no sense financially, considering the pressure the Blues are under regarding the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Chelsea need to be more calculated in the transfer window. Nicholas Jackson has shown glimpses of the terrific player he can be, and there is no need to shell hundreds of millions on another young striker to block his path.
The West Londoners need to find an experienced and cheap striker to fill the gap, allowing Jackson to grow and show the bags of potential in his arsenal.
Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy (22 goals and nine big chances created in 20 league appearances) comes to mind as a potential option for Chelsea. He is 28, hardworking, coming off the back of a prolific campaign, with Ligue 1 and Bundesliga experience.
Guirassy also has a €17.5m contract that could be activated this summer. He is a smarter and safer bet than shelling millions to sign big-money strikers.
We are still trying to move on one €105m striker (Romelu Lukaku) – why add another?