Incoming Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino “considers” Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic as the “ideal” fit for his tactical setup, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.

The Serbian international was thought to be just one of many forwards that the Blues are targeting ahead of the summer, but Galetti thinks the 23-year-old could well become Pochettino’s no.1 target:

“The Blues could make a concrete move for the Serbian. Especially because the next manager, [Mauricio] Pochettino, considers Dušan the ideal striker for his tactical idea. The player likes the destination and reaching an agreement on personal terms wouldn’t be a problem.”

There is no doubt that Chelsea are in the market for a new number nine. There has been some speculation that Pochettino could persuade Romelu Lukaku to stay at Stamford Bridge but it is widely believed that the player wants a permanent move to Inter Milan.

Other names have also been considered, including the likes of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Tottenham’s Harry Kane, but Vlahovic is the cheapest option on the table. Reports in Italy suggest his price tag could be around €80m (£69m).

Financial Fair Play Could Restrict Chelsea’s Spending Power

Osimhen’s price tag is reportedly €150m (£130m), while Spurs would be very reluctant to sell Kane to a fierce rival, so he may also cost in excess of £100m despite the short time left on his contract.

With Financial Fair Play regulations to consider, it means that the Blues may have to set their sights a bit lower by pursuing Vlahovic instead.

The Serbian has struggled for goals this season, bagging just 14 in all competitions, but it appears that Pochettino sees the potential in him.