Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel is reportedly against making approaches for Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar.
The Premier League giants are allegedly on the verge of making their first signing of the summer with Raheem Sterling said to have undergone a medical ahead of a transfer from Manchester City.
However, the Blues are in the market for at least one new attacker with Leeds United winger Raphinha seemingly preferring to sign for Barcelona over a switch to Stamford Bridge.
Over the past 10 days, Chelsea have been heavily linked with a bid for Cristiano Ronaldo, who is said to have informed Manchester United that he wants to depart Old Trafford this summer.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly open to cashing in on Neymar, despite the Brazilian's contract having recently been extended to 2027.
© Reuters
Nevertheless, according to the Evening Standard, Tuchel would prefer owner Todd Boehly not to make a play for either of the two global superstars.
The report suggests that the German is against bringing an older high-profile star into his first-team squad ahead of the next campaign.
Boehly has already held discussions with super-agent Jorge Mendes, who represents Ronaldo, but it is becoming increasingly unlikely that a formal proposal will be made for the Portuguese forward.
United head coach Erik ten Hag has added to that perception, the Dutchman having been commenting on the 37-year-old's future on Monday.
© Reuters
Speaking to reporters, Ten Hag said: "He is not with us due to personal issues. We are planning with Cristiano Ronaldo for this season. That is it.
"I am looking forward to working with him. Cristiano is not for sale. He is in our plans. We want success together. I had a good talk. That is between Cristiano and me. What I can confirm is we had a really good conversation together."
Tuchel may now be in a position where he reevaluates the futures of his current crop, some of which have been linked with a move elsewhere.
Hakim Ziyech is seemingly likely to sign for AC Milan at some point, while Christian Pulisic and Timo Werner have also been associated with a transfer to a different club.
Chelsea are also attempting to sign new defenders with Tuchel hoping to get a deal for Man City's Nathan Ake over the line as soon as possible.
Darren Plant
