Chelsea have now decided against making a move to sign Tammy Abraham from Roma this summer.
That is according to Il Messaggero in Italy.
If the update about Tammy Abraham is true, then Reece James will be disappointed.
What’s the story?
Well, the Italian news outlet believe Chelsea will not be triggering their €80m (£70m) buyback clause for Abraham, which becomes active this summer.
The Blues negotiated the option when selling the England international to Roma in a £34m deal back in August 2021.
Il Messaggero state that Abraham’s future at Roma is uncertain and he could leave the Stadio Olimpico this summer, although Chelsea believe the £70m option is too expensive and will not be pursuing a deal.
It is also said that Aston Villa are a potential destination for the 25-year-old.
Abraham has endured a tough season at Roma with just nine goals in 51 appearances this term.
It represents a significant drop off to his debut campaign in Rome, in which he scored 27 goals in 53 games across all competitions.
Reece James wanted Tammy Abraham at Chelsea
As aforesaid, James will be disappointed by this news, as he was keen on a reunion with his old teammate at Stamford Bridge.
Abraham told Tutto Mercato Web that he still speaks to many Chelsea players, including the England international who has told him to make a return to west London.
The Roma No.9 said: “I still talk to so many Chelsea players, (Reece) James always tells me to come back. We grew up together and have known each other for years – players like (Mason) Mount, (Declan) Rice and (Eddie) Nketiah.”
While James may be upset, we feel it is the right decision by Chelsea – £70m for a striker with just nine goals this season would be poor business, regardless of Abraham’s links to the Blues.