Bargain of the summer? Chelsea interest in Duran alternative confirmed

Tom Weber

Updated: 17 Jun 2024 11:01 CDT
4 min read

Jhon Duran, Chelsea, Aston Villa, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Chelsea are indeed interested in Serhou Guirassy, according to reliable journalist Ben Jacobs.

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The Blues are in the market for a striker. Though they are happy with Nicolas Jackson and expected Christopher Nkunku to hit double figures next season, Chelsea want to add another centre-forward to Enzo Maresca's side.

In recent weeks, talks with Aston Villa over a move - or potential swap deal - for Jhon Duran have been progressing, with the west London giants recently receiving the greenlight to formally begin negotiating a contract with the player.

However, there is still uncertainty surrounding the player and the formula of the deal. Chelsea are said to be unsure of Duran, with the Colombian having failed to have an impact at Aston Villa, while Unai Emery and company are interested in Blues stars Ian Maatsen and Conor Gallagher, both of whom are currently at Euro 2024.

Duran alternative

Therefore, Chelsea are looking at other strikers besides Duran. In recent days, fresh links with Stuttgart hotshot Serhou Guirassy have appeared in the German media.

After an outstanding season of firing the Swabians into the Champions League with 28 Bundesliga goals, the Guinean is one of the most in-demand strikers in Europe due to a release clause believed to be in the region of €17.5 million to €20m.

Borussia Dortmund are desperately trying to get their hands on the 28-year-old, but talks with the player's camp have proven difficult. This has presented Chelsea with an opportunity.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the Blues are indeed considering Guirassy as an option and they have no concerns about his age despite primarily signing young since Todd Boehly's takeover. Given the massive opportunity that such a bargain move presents, Chelsea are willing to make an exception.

Guirassy has also previously been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Man Utd, which gave rise to questions about his ability given that he never before enjoyed a season quite as prolific as the one just gone. However, Guinea and Bundesliga legend Pablo Thiam recently assured FootballTransfers that Guirassy has everything required to succeed at a big Premier League club.