“I’m staying”- Roma’s Paulo Dybala ends Chelsea transfer hopes

Paulo Dybala reveals he wants to stay at Roma despite interest from Chelsea

Paulo Dybala has spoken about his future and revealed that he wants to stay at AS Roma despite interest from Chelsea and their boss Mauricio Pochettino.

A few days ago, Metro revealed that Pochettino is interested in bringing the Argentine international to Stamford Bridge this summer. Chelsea defender Thiago Silva backed that idea in an interview.

There is an understanding that Dybala’s current contract at Rome, which is lasting until the summer of 2025 (Transfermarkt), has a release clause of €12m.

Here’s what the 29-year-old said about his future (h/t LaRoma 24, via Evening Standard):

“I’m motivated for pre-season, which we’re starting [on Monday]. My future? I’m happy at Roma. I’m staying here.”

The former Juventus star had an excellent first season at Roma after joining them last summer. He scored 18 goals and assisted eight in 38 appearances in all competitions.

Chelsea have added Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku to their forward line this summer so far. It is more or less confirmed that Romelu Lukaku will leave the club in the coming days.

Dybala is an attacking midfield player who can operate as a support striker or a false number nine. He is technically strong, can make the right decisions in the final third and has a lovely shot in him. He isn’t very quick but relies on his brain to find spaces between the lines to hurt the opposition’s defence.

What that quote from the Argentine says is that he is comfortable staying at Roma. Keeping that in mind, does Pochettino continue to push for a move and try to convince the player? We wait and see about that.

More Chelsea News

• Pochettino claims he will speak to Mykhaylo Mudryk and Levi Colwill when they join Chelsea for pre-season training
• Chelsea are holding out for £40m for wantaway striker Romelu Lukaku amid Inter and Juventus interest
• Chelsea are expected to make offer for Montpellier forward Elye Wahi

Irrespective of what happens with this, Chelsea could do by signing a striker as well. Jackson is a decent addition but he is young and should not be burdened with responsibility in his first season here.