Chelsea are not interested in signing Real Madrid pair Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said that the Blues’ wage structure meant that neither forward would be considered as transfer targets, despite what reports would have you believe:

“What I’m told, Rodrygo is not even on the list at Chelsea. So, at the moment, there is absolutely zero [truth] in these reports on Rodrygo Goes and Chelsea from Spain. In recent days, let me say, it is quite typical from the international break.”

“We also saw links between Vinicius Jr and Chelsea – some reports in Spain saying that Vini is probably one of the players being considered by Chelsea in case he decides to leave Real Madrid. What I can tell you is that, also in this case, it’s similar to Rodrygo. It’s not they don’t like the players like Rodrygo, Vinicius – these are fantastic players – but Chelsea are going in a different direction…”

“Remember the Victor Osimhen deal from the summer of 2024. Chelsea had conversations to sign Osimhen in 2024, but then they decided not to proceed because they didn’t want to change the salary structure. So, the salary is something really important when you mention Chelsea and when you mention transfer news about Chelsea. Don’t forget the direction they’re going. That’s really, really important.”

Both Rodrygo and Vinicius could leave Real

Neither Brazilian is said to be happy with their situation at the Bernabeu. Rodrygo has been mostly used as a substitute by Xabi Alonso this season and it has been suggested he could be sold for around €80m (£70m) in January.

Vinicius’s asking price is reportedly a lot higher – approximately €150m (£132m), although that valuation could come down quite significantly over the next six months if he doesn’t sign a new contract.

Are Chelsea interested in signing any other forwards?

As Romano points out, the Blues tend to pursue up-and-coming players who do not command high salaries. In terms of strikers who would fit that bill, Porto’s Samu Aghehowa is someone that the club have pursued in the past and could go after in the future.

Enzo Maresca’s side have also been looking at no.10s with the likes of Como’s Nico Paz and Cruzeiro’s Felipe Morais on the club’s radar. They’ve reportedly made a bid for the latter in recent days.

Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here