Chelsea set to return for Goncalo Ramos

Chelsea could return for Goncalo Ramos in the summer as they search for a new striker to lead the line.

According to Correio da Manha via Sport Witness, Chelsea retain an interest in Goncalo Ramos and could return for the 19-goal striker. The Blues are keen on strengthening their frontline as they miss a viable No.9 in their squad.

Back in the summer, a few Premier League clubs tried to sign Goncalo Ramos from Benfica. The Portuguese giants were unsatisfied with the offers, with the best they could get being around €30 million. The striker was ready to stay put and not force through a move.

He was again in demand during the January transfer window, fresh from scoring a World Cup hat-trick. As Benfica stood firm in their stance for Enzo Fernandez, they wanted interested clubs to pay Ramos’s €120 million release clause to sign him and refused to negotiate further.

Chelsea were the club that signed Enzo Fernandez by agreeing to pay around €120 million in instalments. After signing several attacking talents earlier in January, they wanted to prioritise the midfielder. They inadvertently pushed their search for a new striker to the summer, where they could remain active.

 Embed from Getty Images

Goncalo Ramos remains a player of interest for Chelsea, who have reportedly vowed to return with an offer. The 19-goal striker is having a terrific season with Benfica, but more clubs could show their admiration when the season ends.

While he still has a €120 million release clause, Benfica could reportedly agree on a deal for less, with the report suggesting they might demand at least €100 million. Considering the current scenario in the market and the player’s long-term value, clubs could pay a fee closer to that asking price.

Chelsea have problems with strikers this season, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang their only out-and-out option. The Gabonese international has since been out of the squad and omitted from the Champions League list. Those are all indications they might go for a new frontman, with Napoli’s Victor Osimhen high on their list.

They are also keen on Ramos and consider him a top option that would go well with their newly assembled young attacking setup. The 19-goal striker also has interest coming from Manchester United, among other top clubs.

Hence, there may be a sufficient number of offers for the striker, but much will depend on Benfica’s financial demands. While Chelsea requires a new striker, they would also like to strike a swift deal for one of their top targets, including Ramos.