High Release Clause for Elite Striker Puts Chelsea’s Transfer Plans in Jeopardy

At the start of this summer transfer window, Chelsea had a clear strategy: reinforce the squad with affordable options and young talents, focusing primarily on acquiring an elite right winger and a backup striker for Nicolas Jackson.

The initial phase of the transfer window was promising, with Chelsea pursuing Michael Olise—who ultimately signed with Bayern Munich—and expressing strong interest in strikers like Jhon Duran. However, the momentum has since slowed, with little recent discussion about new striker options.

Some speculated that Chelsea might have shifted their focus, possibly considering 18-year-old Barcelona striker Marc Guiu, signed for €6 million in June, as sufficient reinforcement.

However, according to Ben Jacobs, who is well-informed about Chelsea’s transfer activities, the club remains determined to sign a new striker. Jacobs reports that Atletico Madrid’s 20-year-old striker Samu Omorodion is at the top of Chelsea’s list.

Chelsea has had “multiple rejected bids” for Omorodion, none exceeding €50 million. Atletico Madrid is firm in their stance, demanding at least €70 million and aiming to secure a new contract for Omorodion with a €120 million release clause.

The €20 million-plus gap between Chelsea’s valuation and Atletico’s asking price presents a significant challenge. Considering Chelsea’s satisfaction with Jackson and their need for an alternate, not a replacement, it seems unlikely that the club would invest €70 million in a second-choice striker, especially under the new financial prudence.

While Jacobs notes that the deal is not entirely off the table, finding agreeable terms appears increasingly difficult. As it stands, it is hard to envision a scenario where the two clubs reach a mutually acceptable agreement.