Chelsea consider Belotti swoop
The Sun reports that Premier League side Chelsea are considering alternatives to Erling Haaland and Romelu Lukaku, who both might cost around £100 million. One possibility is making a move for 27-year-old Torino forward Andrea Belotti, who is valued at about £85 million, and would allow the London side to improve their forward line for a little less cash.
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Paper Round’s view: Given the amount of sides who are looking at both Lukaku and Haaland, it makes sense that Chelsea work on having a back-up plan. The striker is a reliable presence in Serie A and he has the physical qualities to cope with the demands of the Premier League, though it has to be remembered that Italians generally struggle with life in English football.
Barcelona line-up Serie A duo as Haaland alternatives – Euro Papers
Real hold advantage in race for Haaland
Paper Round’s view: With Dortmund needing to sell for the highest bidder, it seems unlikely that there will be too much for the suitors to do than make sure they are at the front of the queue. Having said that, given Manchester United dawdled over meeting their request for Jadon Sancho, the Spanish duo might be given an easier time when it comes to agreeing a fee.
Guardiola reluctant to spend big
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola appeared to suggest that his side would not be spending to heavily this summer, which may have implications for any move for Borussia’s Haaland. The Telegraph reports that the Catalan manager said of his transfer hopes: “With these prices we are not going to sign any striker. We are not going to sign any striker, it’s impossible – we cannot afford it. That’s not going to happen. All the clubs struggle financially and we are not an exception.”
Chelsea consider striking options
Paper Round’s view: Aguero looks to be a bargain given he would not cost any transfer fee, however there is one consideration. The striker has had a problem with his hamstrings and other injuries over the past few years, so he could not be relied upon to go a whole season without missing a decent chunk of it, given his age. But that might be a gamble worth taking.
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