Chelsea's hopes of signing Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez have been dealt a blow following comments from Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo.
Alvarez has showcased his undoubted talent since joining Man City from Argentine giants River Plate in a £14m move in 2022.
The 2022 World Cup winner has scored 36 goals and provided 18 assists in 103 appearances for the Citizens, helping the club win two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FA Cup, the UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup.
Despite collecting six major honours, Alvarez has seen his future become the subject of much speculation due to claims that he is unhappy with his role in the Man City squad.
The Argentine is regarded as an important player for Pep Guardiola, but he is seemingly wary of being in Erling Haaland's shadow at the Etihad Stadium.
© Reuters
Cerezo makes claim on Alvarez's Man City future
Man City's Premier League rivals Chelsea have emerged as one of the contenders to sign Alvarez ahead of the 2024-25 season.
The Blues are looking to recruit a new forward to provide competition to their current first-choice striker Nicolas Jackson.
Alvarez is also believed to be attracting interest from Spanish giants Atletico and French champions Paris Saint-Germain.
However, Atletico's president has poured cold water over the notion that any of the trio will be able to secure Alvarez's signature this summer.
Speaking to Uno TV in Mexico, Cerezo said: "Alvarez is a Man City player, and I believe he won't be moving from there."
© Reuters
Who are Chelsea's other forward targets?
While it remains to be seen where Alvarez's future lies, Chelsea will continue their quest to bolster their attacking options ahead of Enzo Maresca's first season in charge.
The Blues have seemingly cooled their interest in Napoli star Victor Osimhen due to his significant £113m release clause.
RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko appears to be a more feasible option, but they are facing intense competition from London rivals Arsenal.
A recent report also claimed that Everton marksman Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been earmarked as a potential transfer target.
