Chelsea Scouts Monitor Bologna Striker Santiago Castro Ahead of Potential January Transfer

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Bologna forward Santiago Castro, with scouts dispatched to Serie A to closely monitor the young Argentine ahead of the January transfer window.

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Chelsea’s Long Search For a No. 9

Since taking charge at Stamford Bridge, head coach Enzo Maresca has made no secret of his desire to strengthen Chelsea’s attacking options. The Blues have invested heavily in young strikers over the past year, but a clinical, long-term solution has yet to emerge. Castro, 21, has now become one of the latest names under consideration.

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Scouts Track Castro’s Progress

According to reports from Il Resto del Carlino via Tuttomercatoweb, Chelsea scouts were in attendance at Bologna’s recent league matches to evaluate Castro.

• Joined Bologna from Velez Sarsfield for €13.2m in January 2024

• Has 1 goal and 1 assist in 5 Serie A appearances this season

• Known for his movement, aerial strength, and technical link-up play

Despite modest numbers so far, his overall performances have attracted attention from multiple European clubs.

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Bologna’s Stance on a Transfer

Bologna are fully aware of Castro’s growing reputation and interest across Europe. Inter Milan and Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr have already explored potential deals, but the Italian side are reluctant sellers.

• Castro’s contract runs until June 2028

• Bologna would only entertain offers in the region of €50m (£43.4m)

• A January move appears difficult, with a summer 2026 transfer more likely

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Chelsea’s Recruitment Model

Chelsea’s interest in Castro mirrors the club’s recent recruitment strategy under Todd Boehly’s ownership: targeting young, high-upside forwards with long-term potential. The Blues already boast an array of youthful attacking talent, including Marc Guiu, Joao Pedro, and Liam Delap, yet inconsistency in front of goal remains a major concern.

Bringing in Castro would increase competition but also aligns with Chelsea’s plan to build squad depth and identify a breakout star capable of leading the line.

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Castro’s Rapid Rise

Castro’s career trajectory has been on an upward curve since debuting with Velez Sarsfield in 2021. After 61 appearances and eight goals in Argentina, he moved to Bologna, where he quickly adapted to Italian football.

Highlights include:

• Helping Bologna win the 2024–25 Coppa Italia

• Delivering a standout performance in a 3–3 draw vs Juventus

• Becoming a regular in Vincenzo Italiano’s forward rotation

At international level, Castro has represented Argentina at youth levels and is on the verge of a senior call-up.

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Conclusion

Chelsea’s scouting mission for Santiago Castro signals serious intent as the club continues its hunt for a reliable striker. With Bologna standing firm on their valuation, the Blues may have to wait until the summer — but Castro’s profile fits perfectly into their vision of building for the future.