EPL: Chelsea step up Haaland transfer chase as Tuchel targets striker deal

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Erling Haaland, with Thomas Tuchel making a top-class striker his transfer priority this summer.

The Norway international has long been Chelsea’s leading target, but Borussia Dortmund’s refusal to sell and the huge financial package required to secure the deal have been major obstacles.

Still, the Champions League winners are exploring the possibility of landing the 20-year-old, who is wanted by all of Europe’s leading clubs.

Chelsea have looked at a list of potential strike targets, including Sergio Aguero and Romelu Lukaku.

But Aguero has completed a free transfer to Barcelona, while Lukaku insists he will remain at Inter Milan.

That has prompted Chelsea to see if there is any possibility of bringing Haaland to Stamford Bridge in what would be a major coup.

A potential part-exchange for Tammy Abraham has been mooted, with the England striker expected to leave Chelsea after failing to convince Tuchel he can lead his attack.

Dortmund insist they will keep Haaland for another season, even if it means the risk of losing him for around £65million due to a release clause that will kick in next summer.

The German club could demand around £150m during this transfer window, but Chelsea, along with Manchester United, are reluctant to meet that valuation or salary demands that could be as high as £300,000-a-week.

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Dortmund’s willingness to sell Jadon Sancho for around £77m – with United leading the race for the winger – also reduces the need to cash in on Haaland.

Tuchel was in discussions over his summer transfer plans even before signing a new contract until 2024 last week.