Chelsea have had a £34million offer for striker Samu Omorodion knocked back by Atletico Madrid, talkSPORT understands.
Blues boss Enzo Maresca has made bringing in a new centre-forward a top priority as they look to provide competition for Nicolas Jackson.
It is believed that the Senegal international is considering a move away from Stamford Bridge after being left unhappy by the club parting ways with Mauricio Pochettino.
Atletico have emerged as a potential destination for the ex-Villarreal striker, but the west Londoners are ready rebuff any offers for the 22-year-old.
And it is Atletico who Chelsea are looking to raid, having been left impressed by Omorodion’s loan at Alaves during the 2023/24 campaign.
Following his eight LaLiga goals from 35 appearances, Chelsea have lodged a £34m bid, which has been instantly rejected.
In their quest to keep the 20-year-old at the Wanda Metropolitano, they have offered the youngster a new deal.
Spain youth international Omorodion only joined Atletico from Granada in August 2023, where he is tied down until 2028.
But he has been offered fresh terms, with Atletico putting in a whopping release clause of around £85m into their contract offer.
After a fine start at Alaves, Diego Simeone had considered recalling him, with the Argentine icon lauding his qualities.
He said of the player in October: “You can see him evolving in the games we’ve followed involving Alaves.
“He’s a young guy, strong, with a lot of speed in long spaces and very good play in the box with his body.
“Let’s hope he does well at Alaves, because he has a future with Atletico.
“He spent only a few days with us but he looks humble and hardworking. He will be an important player.”
Chelsea have turned to Omorodion after Slovenia starlet Benjamin Sesko decided against a move to the Premier League to sign a new deal at RB Leipzig.
talkSPORT understands that Aston Villa marksman Jhon Duran is also of interest to Chelsea.
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