Nottingham Forest have now told Chelsea they can sign Brennan Johnson for £40m as Mauricio Pochettino aims to buy a new striker.
That is according to the Independent.
So, what is the latest on Chelsea target Brennan Johnson? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, the Blues are now looking at the Wales international after seeing a deal for Michael Olise dramatically collapse.
The France Under-21 international has surprisingly signed a new contract at Crystal Palace, despite Fabrizio Romano claiming he had agreed to join Chelsea.
Despite that setback, Pochettino stills wants to sign a new forward, and has earmarked Johnson as a viable alternative.
The Independent believe Brentford are also keen to sign the Welshman – who was described as “rapid” by Wales boss Rob Page.
However, Nottingham Forest are against selling Johnson to a fellow mid-table Premier League side, so Chelsea are said to be viewed as a preferred destination.
The 22-year-old has found himself on Chelsea’s radar after an excellent debut campaign in the Premier League last season, scoring eight goals in 38 appearances as Nottingham Forest avoided relegation.
Chelsea target Brennan Johnson is no Michael Olise
It is interesting to see Chelsea move onto Johnson after missing out on Olise – as the pair are different types of players.
Yes, the duo are able to operate on the right flank as well as centrally, so they have one thing in common.
However, Olise is a left-footed winger who loves to cut inside on his stronger left foot, whereas Johnson is a right-footed forward who operates more centrally, and has a very different style of play.
It suggests Pochettino may have decided to trust Noni Madueke on the right flank, and Johnson is seen as someone more likely to challenge Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja in the middle.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Chelsea could soon bid for Johnson.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
