Chelsea target move for Nottingham Forest’s Brennan Johnson

Chelsea are eyeing a move for Nottingham Forest attacker Brennan Johnson, according to the Guardian.

Opening talks have been initiated between the two clubs to explore the possibility of the Welsh international moving to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea’s pursuit of attackers took an unexpected twist as their prime target Michael Olise signed a new deal with Crystal Palace today. 

Olise opted to continue with the Eagles, signing a four-year contract that binds him to Selhurst Park until 2027 to end Chelsea’s chase. 

However, theys cannot afford to lick their wounds. Chelsea’s attack needs addition, and they will refocus their energy on fresh prospects.

They have now turned their attention to Johnson, who impressed in the Premier League last season. 

Forest value him at £45 million, and Chelsea’s management has already opened dialogue with them, although discussions remain in their infancy. The deal could potentially involve player exchanges.

Johnson is also wanted by Brentford, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United after playing an instrumental role in their ascent from the Championship in 2022.

He netted eight goals and three assists in the Premier League last season to keep them in the top flight despite looking relegation bound.

Brentford saw a £35 million bid rejected earlier this summer, while West Ham United are eyeing the 22-year-old to reinforce their forward line following the departures of Manuel Lanzini and Gianluca Scamacca.

If Johnson joins Chelsea, he would compete with Raheem Sterling, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke for a spot on the flanks. 

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino wants depth in attack for the coming season. His demands are even more urgent following sidelining of Christopher Nkunku due to a long-term knee injury. 

The pursuit of Johnson aligns seamlessly with Chelsea’s philosophy of signing young talents, hoping they explode at Stamford Bridge.

He could be the next young talent to join the two-time Champions League winners as part of their never-ending spending spree.