Chelsea are “unlikely” to make an approach for Roma forward Paulo Dybala, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Reports in the Italian media had suggested that the Blues could take advantage of a €12m (£10.3m) buyout fee in his contract but, with the clause expiring on January 15th, Romano says a transfer would be tough to pull off:

“Despite rumours about Chelsea, I see Dybala staying at Roma as things stand. I have no updates, there’s nothing happening as of now and his release clause will expire in four days…so, it looks difficult and unlikely.”

“I think Chelsea need a striker more than a top quality all-round attacking player like Dybala.”

Why were Chelsea considering a move for Dybala?

The fact that the Argentinian international was available for such a low price would have made him an attractive target, especially as the London club have to be careful in terms of complying with Financial Fair Play.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino is also known to be a massive fan of Dybala’s, having described him as one of “the best in the world” a few years back.

Could Chelsea make a move for another striker this month?

As Romano points out, the Blues do “need” to recruit a new No.9. Nicolas Jackson is away with Senegal at the African Cup of Nations while Armando Broja has yet to prove that he can lead the line for a team with ambitions of winning trophies.

It is believed that Chelsea have been holding talks with the agent of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen in recent weeks but those negotiations are in view to a summer switch, rather than a move in January. With Dybala seemingly a non-starter, we shall see who else the club will consider.

RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Stuttgart’s Serhou Guirassy have been suggested as alternatives if the Blues are considering cheaper options but no deal appears to be imminent.