Chelsea set to launch bid for free-agent striker as surprise Liam Delap replacement.

 Chelsea are preparing to make a move for a high-profile free-agent striker this summer, according to a report from TeamTalk.

Juventus forward Dušan Vlahović is set to become a free agent at the end of the season as his contract with the Serie A giants expires.

According to TeamTalk, Chelsea are preparing to launch a move for a high-profile striker this summer and are among the leading contenders to sign the Serbian international. Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan are also reportedly in the race for the 25-year-old, who turns 26 later this week.

Following Juventus’ decision to sign Jonathan David on a free transfer last summer, it appears increasingly likely that Vlahović—who has been sidelined with an adductor injury since late November—will be allowed to leave Turin without a transfer fee.

Chelsea already boast attacking options such as João Pedro, Liam Delap, and Marc Guiu, with Emmanuel Emegha set to arrive from Strasbourg in the summer. Nicolas Jackson could also return to Stamford Bridge should Bayern Munich opt not to make his loan move permanent.

Vlahović joined Juventus from Fiorentina in January 2022 after a blistering start to the season, scoring 20 goals in 24 appearances across all competitions. However, he has failed to reach the 20-goal mark in any full season during his time in Turin.

Chelsea are believed to be better positioned than Spurs and Milan to offer a lucrative wage package—an important factor as Vlahović enters his prime years. That said, his free-agent status will allow all interested clubs to stretch their salary offers, potentially levelling the playing field.

From a sporting perspective, Vlahović may face less competition for minutes at Tottenham or Milan. Dominic Solanke’s injury issues and inconsistent form have left opportunities open in north London, while Massimiliano Allegri’s preference for a two-striker system in a 3-5-2 formation at Milan could offer increased playing time.

Per Tribuna, Vlahovic earns around £368,000 per week (€427,000 equivalent) on a gross annual salary of €22.2 million – making him Serie A's highest-paid player ahead of Inter's Lautaro Martinez and teammates.

With no transfer fee involved, the final decision may ultimately hinge on Vlahović’s personal priorities—whether financial security, guaranteed minutes, or long-term sporting ambition.