According to Metro, Atletico Madrid have reportedly turned down a £42 million offer from Chelsea for Spanish striker Samu Omorodion, signaling their intent to retain the promising young forward.
New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is keen on strengthening his attacking options following Nicolas Jackson's mixed debut season at Stamford Bridge. Jackson, who scored 17 goals across all competitions, faced criticism for missed opportunities and inefficiency in the final third.
Omorodion joined Atletico Madrid from Granada last summer and spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Alaves, where he managed eight goals in 34 La Liga appearances. Despite the modest goal tally, Omorodion's performances earned him recognition, including being named La Liga's Player of the Month in February.
Atletico Madrid, impressed with Omorodion's development, rebuffed Chelsea's initial bid of £42 million, according to The Sun. The Spanish club, under no pressure to sell, values the player closer to his release clause of nearly £70 million.
Atletico's head coach commented on Omorodion's potential, highlighting his youth, strength, speed, and effectiveness in the penalty area. The coach expressed optimism about Omorodion's future with Atletico, describing him as humble and hardworking, and emphasizing his importance to the team's plans.
Omorodion is expected to feature for Spain at the upcoming Paris Olympics before returning to Atletico Madrid, where he aims to secure a spot in Diego Simeone's starting lineup.
Chelsea, in preparation for the 2024-25 season, have already completed four signings, including Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Omari Kellyman, while also making several departures from the squad.
Despite a managerial change from Mauricio Pochettino to Enzo Maresca, Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League last season and secured European qualification through a late-season surge.