Chelsea "could still be interested" in Erling Braut Haaland despite their pursuit of Inter Milan forward Romelu Lukaku, according to Sky Sports News reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
The Blues had seemingly identified Haaland as their leading target in the final third of the field, but Borussia Dortmund signalled that they would not be selling the Norway international this summer.
Thomas Tuchel's side are said to be closing in on a deal for Lukaku, which had been expected to end their interest in Haaland, both this summer and next, when there will be a release clause in the youngster's contract.
However, Sheth has claimed that the European Cup holders could potentially still target the 21-year-old as a strike partner for Lukaku.
"It's a very good question as Chelsea were very interested in Haaland. Who knows, they could still be interested. Could you see a situation where they could try to break the bank by bringing in Haaland and Romelu Lukaku? That seems unlikely," said the reporter.
"This could drag on into next summer. Borussia Dortmund have said there's no gentleman's agreement with Haaland as there was with Jadon Sancho. All of the noises coming out of Germany are saying Dortmund won't sell both those players in the same transfer window.
"Haaland has a release clause that kicks in next summer. With Man City in for Harry Kane and Chelsea in for Lukaku, where does that leave those two clubs with regards to Haaland? Maybe they both feel they could pair those players with Haaland but next summer there will be more clubs who could afford him."
Haaland will be available for around £67m next summer, and Manchester United, Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid are also all expected to compete for his signature.
Matt Law
