Chelsea is exploring the possibility of signing two Sporting Lisbon players, Ousmane Diomande and Viktor Gyokeres, in a combined deal worth £156 million. Mauricio Pochettino, despite substantial summer spending, aims to strengthen Chelsea’s squad in the upcoming transfer window due to their underwhelming performances, prompting the need for reinforcements as some of their signings haven’t delivered as expected.
The focus has turned towards Sporting Lisbon, who have made it clear about their expectations regarding transfer fees. Gyokeres, previously with Coventry in the Championship, moved to Lisbon for £17 million in the summer. Sporting is now seeking £87 million for his release clause if they are to consider parting ways with him. Gyokeres, a Swedish international, has an impressive track record, scoring 17 goals and contributing eight assists in 20 appearances, potentially offering a solution to Chelsea’s issues in attack. He previously notched 22 goals for Coventry.
Chelsea’s struggles in scoring have been persistent, leading them to consider options like Victor Osimhen. However, Napoli seems close to finalizing a deal, including a £112 million release clause, potentially dampening Chelsea’s pursuit. Reports suggest Chelsea has initiated contact with Gyokeres and Diomande, Sporting teammates.
Diomande, a centre-back who arrived from Midtjylland for £6.5 million last January, is now valued at £69 million by Sporting. However, the initial approach from Chelsea for the defender was rejected. Complications could arise as Diomande’s former club expects a 20 percent cut from any transfer fee, potentially complicating the negotiation process.
Chelsea’s defensive concerns persist with long-term injuries to Wesley Fofana and the potential exit of Thiago Silva when his contract expires, while Trevoh Chalobah is deemed surplus to requirements. This intensifies Pochettino’s quest to reinforce the defensive line.
Additionally, Pochettino is considering bolstering the midfield but views it as a lower priority. Instead of spending more, he might recall 19-year-old Andrey Santos from a lackluster loan spell at Nottingham Forest.