Chelsea face transfer HUMILIATION as Barcelona eye Gyokeres alternative

Cameron Smith

12 Nov 2024 12:00 CST
3 min read

Barcelona have reportedly joined the race to sign FC Porto forward Samu Omorodion as they continue their search for a long-term heir to Robert Lewandowski.

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The Blaugrana are expected to purchase a new number nine in 2025 and they have identified several high-profile targets in a bid to bolster Hansi Flick’s forward line.

Manchester City goal machine Erling Haaland remains their first-choice target, but they are also monitoring Viktor Gyokeres’ situation at Sporting CP as they consider rivalling Arsenal and Manchester United for his signature.

Alexander Isak and Jonathan David are both on Barcelona’s radar too, while Omorodion has now emerged as a new candidate for the Spanish giants, as per El Nacional.

The 20-year-old, who recently earned his first call-up to the senior Spain squad, has scored 12 goals in 13 games since joining Porto this summer and he has been heavily linked with a number of top European clubs.

Chelsea remain interested in Omorodion, having failed to finalise a deal in August, while Man Utd are also keeping tabs on his form amid Joshua Zirkzee’s struggles at OId Trafford.

However, Barcelona have now joined the race for his signature as they look to find the perfect replacement for Lewandowski.

Porto will consider offers in the region of €40 million for Omorodion, according to El Nacional, and Joan Laporta has already informed Flick of his desire to sign the Spaniard next year.

Chelsea rue Samu Omorodion blunder

Chelsea’s move for Omorodion collapsed at the last minute during the summer window and the Blues now risk missing out on the Spain star in 2025 following news of Barcelona’s interest.

Enzo Maresca’s side remain determined to bring the 20-year-old to Stamford Bridge, however the allure of returning to Spain could ensure Chelsea miss out on Omorodion yet again next summer.