Chelsea dealt blow in Sasa Kalajdzic pursuit

Chelsea-linked striker Sasa Kalajdzic has dealt a blow to the Blues' aspirations of a summer deal by talking up a new contract with Stuttgart.

The Austria international is thought to be on Chelsea's list of potential alternatives to Borussia Dortmund's Erling Braut Haaland, with the Blues likely to be priced out of a move for the Norwegian this summer.

Kalajdzic's existing Stuttgart deal is now due to expire in under two years' time, but the 6ft 7in forward can envisage himself remaining with the Bundesliga club for longer.

Speaking to Kleine Zeitung, Kalajdzic said: "Of course, I can imagine extending my contract. But that would also have to fit. It's not just me who decides that; it's also decided by others.

"Something would have to come along that would just fit, and then we'll see. If there's something that really impresses me, where I say I want to do that, then I'll do it.

"I am relaxed. I don't really think about it much. I'm just here right now, having fun with my friends and trying to prepare for every single training session."

Kalajdzic struck 16 goals and assisted six more for Stuttgart in the 2020-21 Bundesliga season and scored a memorable goal against Italy during the Euro 2020 knockout stages.