‘Proud to be here’: Chelsea’s No.1 striker target admits there is ‘no chance’ of an exit this summer

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Lautaro Martinez has now dealt Chelsea a blow after revealing that he has no intention of leaving Inter Milan this summer.

The Argentina international made the comments when speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport.

So, what is the situation involving Chelsea target Lautaro Martinez? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well – according to the Daily Mail – the South American is Mauricio Pochettino’s No.1 striker target as he aims to bring another new frontman to Chelsea, following the arrival of Nicolas Jackson.

A story from The Times added that the 51-year-old thinks Martinez is one of the best strikers in Europe.

Now – however – Chelsea may have to look elsewhere, as the Inter Milan No.10 commits himself to the Italian giants.

As quoted by Gazzetta dello Sport, Martinez said: “I received huge bids from Saudi clubs, it’s true, but I’m very happy at Inter and in Milano, no chance and no reason to change.

“I’m the captain here, Inter is my second home. I feel loved here since day one. I’m proud to be here.”

Martinez found himself on Chelsea’s radar after he enjoyed a fantastic 2022/23 campaign, scoring 28 goals in 57 appearances as Inter Milan won the Coppa Italia and reached the UEFA Champions League final.

Attacking options drying up for Chelsea as Lautaro Martinez commits to Inter Milan

Pochettino is still keen to sign a new forward after losing Kai Havertz and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, while Romelu Lukaku is also expected to leave.

However, the Argentine is finding it difficult – Martinez is not the only Chelsea target to ignore the Blues.

According to Calcio Mercato, Paulo Dybala rejected an approach from Chelsea in the last few days, and is now set to sign a new contract at Roma, which will remove his incredibly low £10m release clause.

Chelsea have also been linked with Dusan Vlahovic and Victor Osimhen, although neither of those sagas have progressed in recent weeks.

As things stand, Chelsea’s hunt for a new striker is not going to plan – to say the least.