Chelsea have joined the race to sign Bologna striker Santiago Castro

Chelsea have joined the race to sign highly-rated Argentine striker Santiago Castro from Bologna Ekrem Konur.

Since joining from Argentine side Vélez Sarsfield in January 2024, Castro has become a striking figure in Serie A. He finished with ten goals and eight assists in all competitions for I Rossoblù last season and has remained central to Bologna’s momentum this season, scoring six goals for Vincenzo Italiano’s side in their quest for European qualification.

These displays have not only piqued the club’s interest, but have also brought recognition at international level, with the 21-year-old receiving his first senior call-up for star-studded Argentina side La Albiceleste in March.

Although he is under contract at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara until 2028, Bologna face the challenge of retaining the versatile attacker amid interest from several clubs. Football talk which shows Everton’s interest in recent weeks.

The latest club to join the race for Castro, according to Chelsea Ekrem Konurwho claims the Club World Cup champions have expressed interest in signing the Argentina forward in 2026.

The 21-year-old is seen as a forward with remarkable potential Football talk reported in March that the youngster is highly regarded and has even been nicknamed ‘Mini Lautaro’.

‘Mini Lautaro’

It appears that Bologna, who have now placed a high price tag on the youngster, are well aware of his qualities and potential to develop into an even better player. Women claims the Rossoblù have added a valuation of £34-43m to the Argentine centre-forward.

However, Chelsea face a fierce battle for Castro’s signature as several clubs including Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Juventus and Inter Milan are also keen to sign the youngster, according to the report.

The Blues currently have a range of centre-forward options on their books, having already signed Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this summer.

They have also agreed deals for the arrivals of Emanuel Emegha and Dastan Satpaev next year, while Marc Guiu and youth star Shumaira Mheuka remain at Stamford Bridge.

Although they have shown attacking promiscuity, especially in their recent Premier League defeat to Aston Villa, where they were able to convert just one of their 19 attempts, the centre-forward position looks good. Instead, the club should prioritize other positions such as the backline, which has been a major problem since Maresca took over.