Chelsea ruled out of Guirassy race
Chelsea are no longer in the race to sign Serhou Guirassy from Bundesliga runner-ups VfB Stuttgart, according to Metro, with the running for his signature now down to three clubs, AC Milan, Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund.
The Blues were initially interested in acquiring the 28-year-old, whose price tag is anticipated to be worth £15-£17 million but are no longer in contention for his transfer due to the player’s inclination being towards joining other clubs.
Guirassy had enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Stuttgart, who were the surprise package in the Bundesliga last season alongside Bayer Leverkusen and finished second in the German top flight to secure a Champions League berth for 2024/25.
His tally of 28 goals was better by only Harry Kane in the top five European leagues, therefore earning him a big market in the summer despite Stuttgart’s insistence in wanting him to stay at the club for a longer duration.
The Bundesliga side’s attempts to convince Guirassy to stay have fallen on deaf ears as the player remains hellbent on pursuing a newer challenge with one of Europe’s bigger sides in the upcoming campaign.
Admittedly, Chelsea missing out on a Champions League spot for next season would have influenced the player’s decision to reject a move to Stamford Bridge in favour of other European Cup participants, instead.
At the same time, it may be a blessing in disguise for the Blues as Guirassy has only had one good campaign at the top level in fairness even though he would have been available for a very low price.
Chelsea already have a number of inexperienced players and their focus right now should be on bringing in a lethal striker who has numerous years of pedigree under his belt, particularly in the Champions League.
In that sense, Victor Osimhen would still be the go-to option as he has made no secret of his desire to leave Napoli and could only be available at a price of £85 million this summer as Antonio Conte wants to bring in Romelu Lukaku at the club.
Chelsea were previously priced out for a transfer for Osimhen when he was worth over £100 million but will fancy their chances of landing the potent Nigerian for what will be viewed as a bargain.
More Chelsea news
- Fabrizio Romano confirms Chelsea will look for two attackers after withdrawing from the race to sign Michael Olise
- Barcelona academy player Marc Guiu emerges as new target for Cheslea
- David Ornstein reveals Michael Olise is now close to joining Bayern Munich after Chelsea withdraw from the race
Though a new signing may cost significantly higher, Chelsea should not be bothered by Guirassy’s rejection and see it as an opportunity to bring in some much-needed offensive firepower with rich experience to the club.