Chelsea Quietly Push Ahead in Race to Sign Julian Álvarez from Manchester City

London—Chelsea have stepped up their pursuit of former Manchester City striker Julián Álvarez, with negotiations now moving into an advanced stage, ESPN Argentina reports.

Sources close to the discussions say that representatives from the agency handling Álvarez’s future were in London this week to watch Chelsea’s 3-1 victory over Arsenal, using the derby as an opportunity to hold face-to-face talks with Stamford Bridge officials. While Barcelona and Arsenal have also been linked with the Argentine, ESPN’s Pablo Zabaleta stated that “the most advanced contacts are with Chelsea” and that the west-London club is “quietly advancing” for the 24-year-old.

Álvarez, who left Manchester City for Atlético Madrid, has emerged as a priority target for Chelsea ahead of the summer transfer window. The Blues explored potential reinforcements during the January window but ultimately only recalled defender Mamadou Sarr from his loan at Strasbourg. Sporting directors now view the longer summer window as the ideal moment to reshape the squad, and Álvarez’s versatility across the front line fits the profile of player the club wants to add.

Chelsea have spent the past week compiling an extensive shortlist of targets, details of which have surfaced online, yet Álvarez appears to have moved to the top of that list. The club’s hierarchy believe his Premier League experience and proven goal threat could provide an immediate lift as they look to close the gap on the league’s top four.

No fee has been agreed yet, but the fact that key intermediaries travelled to England for talks suggests both parties are serious about striking a deal before the window officially opens. With Barcelona’s financial constraints well documented and Arsenal still assessing their attacking options, Chelsea sense an opportunity to steal a march on their rivals and secure Álvarez’s signature.