Premier League heavyweights Chelsea have reportedly reignited their interest in Ousmane Dembele, valued at €50 million by Barcelona.
According to a report by Spanish publication SPORT, Ousmane Dembele is the subject of interest from Chelsea. The Blues are considering signing the Barcelona forward in the 2023 summer transfer window. In particular, he could be a target when his release clause worth €50 million comes into effect.
Ousmane Dembele has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund half a decade ago. But despite having his fair share of lows, the Frenchman is finally starting to prove himself as a long-term replacement for Neymar. In addition, he is also justifying the nine-figure outlay in August 2017.
The 25-year-old has turned his fortunes around under Xavi Hernandez this year. And Dembele has enjoyed a solid 2022/23 season thus far, managing five goals and seven assists in 20 outings. But the player’s contract contains a release clause worth €50 million which will be valid in June and July next year. Such a development has captured the attention of Chelsea.
Chelsea considered signing Dembele in the summer transfer window in a Bosman move. But the 25-year-old eventually decided to commit his future to Barcelona, signing a two-year contract with the Blaugrana. However, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner will enter the final twelve months of his contract next summer.
Such a situation will likely leave Barcelona in a spot of bother. And Chelsea might look to take advantage of the development by bringing him to Stamford Bridge. The interest in Dembele also makes sense because the Blues have struggled for the desired output in the final third this season.
Raheem Sterling’s performance levels have dropped, while Christian Pulisic, Hakim Ziyech, and Kai Havertz have blown hot and cold. In addition, €50 million is an attractive sum to pay for a player who has his best years ahead of him. So the Barcelona forward is a viable target for Chelsea for next summer.
But recent reports have claimed that Barcelona will soon initiate contract talks with Dembele. For now, Chelsea will continue to closely monitor his situation while considering a possible €50 million move for next summer.
