Chelsea could consider bringing Alvaro Morata back to the club if they cannot get a move for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang over the line.
According to SPORT, Chelsea are considering a shock move for Alvaro Morata as an alternative to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after talks with Barcelona hit a snag. The 29-year-old could be allowed to leave Atletico Madrid, although how much of an interest he has over returning to Stamford Bridge could be questioned.
Chelsea need a new No.9 in their ranks, as they have not been at their best in the attacking third this season. Their mixed-bag start to the campaign has seen them win only one game, and a new striker is touted to arrive before the window shuts.
The departures of Timo Werner and Romelu Lukaku have reduced Thomas Tuchel’s options up front. Kai Havertz has been used ineffectively in the false-nine role, and Chelsea are keen to bring in a notable striker before the transfer deadline.
Tuchel wants Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a priority, but a prospective deal with Barcelona has hit a snag. The Blues were willing to offer £15 million plus Marcos Alonso for the former Arsenal captain, but the Catalan giants are reportedly holding out for a cash bid.
Chelsea are unwilling to overpay despite Tuchel’s insistence on signing Aubameyang, who only joined Barcelona on a free transfer in January. The Blaugrana are desperate to raise funds to register players like Jules Kounde and see the sale of the 33-year-old as imperative to their plans.
If Chelsea cannot get a deal over the line, they are ready to look at alternatives, with former striker Alvaro Morata emerging on their radar. The 29-year-old Atletico Madrid attacker could be allowed to depart, as Diego Simeone does not rate him to have a consistent season.
Morata spent the last two years with Juventus but returned to his parent club after the Serie A giants decided against triggering the purchase option. Morata has been linked with Premier League clubs this summer, but things have recently gone cold.
Chelsea’s sudden interest could offer hope for Atletico Madrid, who would hope to recoup some of the funds they invested in acquiring the 29-year-old from Chelsea a few years ago. Morata spent two unsuccessful seasons at Stamford Bridge before heading out the exit door.
Tuchel’s need for a new focal point could push the Chelsea board into attempting to sign their former striker. However, Aubameyang remains the firm choice for Tuchel, although if the deal cannot be agreed with Barcelona, then the 29-year-old Spanish international could become the alternate option for Chelsea.
