Chelsea make first move as ploy to beat Tottenham to striker emerges
Chelsea have “asked for information” about the availability of Arkadiusz Milik as they look to beat Tottenham to the signing of the Napoli striker, according to reports.
Milik moved to Napoli from Ajax in 2016 but injuries have largely restricted him to a back-up role, with his 35 Serie A appearances last season the first time he has managed over 20 in the Italian top flight.
Fellow attacker Dries Mertens is expected to sign a new contract with the Serie A side and reports have claimed that the Belgium international’s extension could act as a “farewell ticket” for Milik.
Tottenham have been linked with Poland international Milik for several months but, according to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla (via Tuttonapoli), Chelsea have now registered interest.
The reporter claims that Tottenham are “pushing a lot” to sign Milik, with Juventus and Atletico Madrid also said to be keen.
Milik has one year left on his deal and it is unclear whether he will sign an extension – if he chooses not to, Napoli are reportedly keen to offload him this summer rather than risk losing him for nothing at the end of next season.
Tottenham and Chelsea were both keen to bring in attacking reinforcements during the January transfer window.
Spurs lost Harry Kane to a hamstring injury on New Years’ Day and signed Gedson Fernandes and Steven Bergwijn, although no out-and-out striker was brought in.
Across London, Blues boss Frank Lampard was keen to find support for Tammy Abraham amid uncertainty over Olivier Giroud’s future.
Giroud has since signed a one-year extension at Stamford Bridge, although Pedro and Willian could both leave at the end of this season.
In other news, Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is reportedly a target for Valencia.