It is very unlikely for a team to want one of their targets to sign for a different club, but in Chelsea's case regarding Lautaro Martinez that could be exactly what they need. The Blues are keen to add a natural striker to Mauricio Pochettino's squad ahead of the 2023/24 season with Victor Osimhen and Martinez as the two prominent names discussed.
Real Madrid are now also in the race for the Inter forward, according to The Times, as they seek to acquire a replacement for Karim Benzema. Chelsea's Kai Havertz and Tottenham star Harry Kane are also both of interest to Carlo Ancelotti's side, but Madrid signing Martinez over the Premier League duo could actually help Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.
In one reality, Martinez could be that man, but as strange as it sounds, Chelsea could benefit more from him choosing Madrid. Given the impressive campaign he has had, Inter would demand a substantial fee to sanction an exit and with any potential funds garnered they could use that to permanently re-sign Romelu Lukaku.
If Lukaku departs, Havertz could remain in SW6 and offer Pochettino ample time to help discover his best position and potentially extend his stay beyond 2025
It must be mentioned that Inter have continuously stressed that Lukaku will not return to San Siro in the next campaign, but presented with the money to make that move happen for a player they know thrives in their system could change that stance. Lautaro obviously plays a key role in his success, but the Belgian has still scored 78 goals in 131 appearances for the Italian giants.
This transfer domino taking place can solve Pochettino's Lukaku issue, with it already being reported he doesn't want to continue at Chelsea, and give the Argentine a suitable windfall. A mass clear out is already expected at Chelsea with numerous sales likely to add significant income to the summer transfer budget with four key signings to be made.
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A new goalkeeper and two new midfielders are likely to be acquired in the upcoming trading period, alongside the purchase of a striker. To fund what is expected to be four lucrative transfers, a further £60million-£70million being added to the transfer kitty from Lukaku's sale is unlikely to be turned down.
The Blues have already opened talks with Southampton to sign Romeo Lavia, football.london understands. Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo is another target with a source telling football.london that Chelsea are confident they can strike a deal with the Seagulls for the Ecuador international this summer.
In terms of goalkeeping targets, negotiations will likely continue with Inter as Andre Onana appears to be the main target. To sanction a summer sale, Inter are holding out for €60million (£52million) with a meeting scheduled between the two clubs to first discuss Lukaku, but Chelsea are already planning plan to bring up Onana.
This exact outcome taking place is far from a foregone conclusion, in fact it is rather facetious, but if anything close to it does arise, Pochettino and Chelsea must take full advantage.
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