It seems as if Chelsea and Thomas Tuchel have their heart set on a potential move for Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland as the London giants are ready to break the bank to secure his signature. In this recent exclusive from Mirror, Darren Lewis claims that Chelsea are ready to use cash plus Tammy Abraham to land the Dortmund forward. Chelsea value Abraham at £50m. Dortmund, however, feel that the Chelsea forward’s valuation is excessive.
However, in a recent social media post, the Norwegian striker posted a picture with the caption “Ready for the journey”, which seems to have cleared the air regarding his present situation. He has begun the pre-season with Dortmund as he looks to stay in Germany for at least one more season.
Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl seems to have similar views on the matter as well.
“Haaland to Chelsea? I read about it, but for us, nothing has changed: we have plans with Erling for next season; he and his agent are aware of it. We expect him back this week.” – Kehl revealed a few days back.
Haaland’s Amazing Season At the Signal Iduna Park
Erling Haaland has been a huge hit in Germany, following his €20 million move to Dortmund in December of 2019. He carried on his goal-scoring success in his Champions League campaign last term as he was the second teenager to score ten goals in the competition. He even won the Golden Boy award. Besides, he played an integral role in Dortmund’s route to winning the DFB Pokal, scoring 3 goals in four appearances over the course of the campaign.
The 20-year-old managed to put up some awe-inspiring numbers on the board in the last term as he averaged 1 goal, 3.3 shots, 1 key pass, 1.1 key dribbles per 90 minutes in the German top flight. Often known for his sublime finishing skills, athleticism, pace, acceleration and off the ball movements, he was named ‘The Terminator’ by his admirers.
What Next For Tuchel?
Dortmund have made it clear time and again that they will not part ways with the Norwegian international in the ongoing transfer window, and now, with Jadon Sancho joining Manchester United, it seems even more impossible.
It is widely believed that the teenager’s €75 release clause will become active at the end of next season, thereby allowing the potential suitors to sign him up for a relatively lower price.
As the current scenario stands, it’d be better if Thomas Tuchel decides to wait for one more year before splashing the cash on the highly-rated striker. The Blues might have to face more competition for his signature in the next transfer window, but chances are, they’ll get the deal done more easily.
(Stats from WhoScored)