Former Chelsea defender Glen Johnson has identified Julian Alvarez as the ideal striker target for Xabi Alonso’s summer rebuild. The Argentina international could be available from Atletico Madrid with Barcelona and Arsenal both circling. According to Football.london.
Johnson calls for Chelsea to hijack Arsenal’s £120m Alvarez pursuit
Johnson believes signing a prolific striker should be Chelsea’s top priority this summer, despite sources indicating the club’s main focus lies elsewhere. The former England defender argues the Blues desperately need a centre-forward capable of scoring 20 Premier League goals per season to compete at the highest level.
Current striker Joao Pedro managed 15 goals in his debut campaign at Stamford Bridge, but questions remain over his long-term suitability as the club’s primary striker. Johnson emphasises that elite teams require goalscorers who can “drag you through games when you’re poor” and find crucial goals against lesser opposition.
Atletico Madrid value Alvarez at £120 million, with Barcelona currently leading the race for his signature ahead of Arsenal. However, Johnson believes Chelsea should enter the fray, describing the former Manchester City striker as “exactly the type of player Chelsea need to go out and snap up” this summer.
The former Blues defender praised Alvarez’s “absolutely through the roof” work ethic and described him as a “perfectly well-rounded striker” with proven Premier League pedigree. Johnson suggested Chelsea could structure a sensible deal by including players in any potential exchange with Atletico Madrid.
Sources indicate Alonso’s actual priorities focus on centre-back, central midfield and left wing reinforcements, with the new manager reportedly aligned with the club’s sporting leadership on these target areas. However, Johnson insists striker remains the most pressing need for sustained success.
