Atletico Madrid have rejected a £34 million offer from Chelsea for striker Samu Omorodion, The Pitch Prospect has learned.
For Blues head coach Enzo Maresca, signing a new centre forward is a top priority as they look to compete with Nicolas Jackson.
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The Senegalese international is believed to be considering a move away from Stamford Bridge after being unhappy with the club’s parting ways with Mauricio Pochettino.
Atletico are considered a possible destination for the former Villarreal striker, but the West Londoners are willing to reject all offers for the 22-year-old.
And Chelsea are keen to lure Atletico away after being impressed by Omorodion’s loan to Alaves during the 2023/24 season.
After his eight La Liga goals in 35 appearances, Chelsea made a £34 million offer, but it was immediately rejected.
In their efforts to keep the 20-year-old at the Wanda Metropolitano, they have offered the youngster a new contract.
Spanish youth international Omorodion only moved from Granada to Atletico in August 2023, where he is tied until 2028.
However, he has been offered new terms, with Atletico including a hefty release clause of around £85 million in his contract offer.
After a good start at Alaves, Diego Simeone had considered bringing him back, with the Argentine icon praising his qualities.
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In October he said of the player: “You could see his development in the games with Alaves that we followed.”
“He is a young, strong guy with a lot of pace over long distances and very good physical play in the penalty area.
“Let’s hope he does well at Alaves because he has a future at Atletico.
“He has only spent a few days with us, but he seems humble and hardworking. He will be an important player.”
Chelsea have turned to Omorodion after Slovenian youngster Benjamin Sesko decided against a move to the Premier League to sign a new contract with RB Leipzig.
The Pitch Prospect has learned that Chelsea are also interested in Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran.
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