Chelsea identify 19-year-old Bayern Munich star as transfer alternative to in-form Premier League forward: Reports
Chelsea are reportedly looking to sign Bayern Munich attacker Mathys Tel as an alternative to Newcastle United's Alexander Isak. According to The Shields Gazette, Isak could end up remaining with the Magpies after his recent statements about his future.
Towards the end of the previous campaign, the Sweden international seemingly hinted at the fact that he would wish to continue at St.James' Park. He said at the time (via Express):
"I came for the project. I absolutely love playing here, I really feel at home. I want to finish the season in a good way for me and the team. I love playing here."
This could be a big blow, given Isak is proven in the Premier League. In 52 appearances so far in the English top-flight, the striker has managed to find the net on 31 occasions.
However, the west Londoners are now said to be eyeing Bayern Munich youngster Tel, who can play out wide and through the middle. This would be a huge move for Chelsea, given the France under-21 international still has five years left on his contract at the Allianz Arena.
According to this report, the Blues have already held talks over a move for the player. To date, he's played 52 matches in the Bundesliga, bagging 12 goals and five assists.
Chelsea are certainly in need of another number nine after Nicolas Jackson failed to fire last season. The Senegal international was not clinical, as he scored 14 goals in 35 Premier League matches.
Chelsea complete the signing of Marc Guiu from Barcelona
As Chelsea continue to be linked with strikers around Europe, they have announced the signing of former Barcelona attacker Marc Guiu. The 18-year-old was transferred after the Blues met the player's reported €6 million release clause.
Guiu was struggling for game time at Camp Nou, with the experienced Robert Lewandowski leading the line. To date, he's made just three La Liga appearances, bagging one goal and has played twice in the UEFA Champions League.
A move to Stamford Bridge may be the right decision, with the number nine spot up for grabs. He only had a year left on his deal at Barcelona and has now signed a contract with the Blues that will see him at Stamford Bridge till the summer of 2029.
According to ESPN, Guiu decided to move to Chelsea after learning of the club's plans to integrate him into the first-team setup.