Two conditions required for Arsenal to swoop for striker in three-way battle
Arsenal and West Ham are expected to increase their interest in Tammy Abraham if Chelsea reduce their asking price, according to a report.
Abraham is facing an uncertain future at Chelsea despite being their top scorer for two seasons running. The Blues are pursuing a big-money signing up front, with Romelu Lukaku now their main target. Should he return to Stamford Bridge, it would push Abraham further out of the picture.
Therefore, the England international – who missed out on the squad for Euro 2020 – is ready to consider his future. Even though Thomas Tuchel seemingly has little room for him, several other clubs would be willing to give Abraham a chance.
The Daily Telegraph have reported that Aston Villa – who had Abraham on loan in their promotion-winning season of 2018-19 – would like to take the 23-year-old back.
However, there have also been frequent rumours of a move across London to Arsenal. West Ham would also seem a sensible destination given their need for a striker.
According to the London Evening Standard, Arsenal are indeed interested in Abraham. However, at present, Chelsea’s asking price of £40m is proving prohibitive.
The Blues may have to reduce those demands, in which case the Standard predict Arsenal and West Ham will show more concrete interest.
Arsenal, though, must get rid of either Alexandre Lacazette or Eddie Nketiah – or both – before pursuing Abraham. The current Gunners duo are both in the final year of their contracts.
Lacazette, in a similar situation to Abraham, has been one of their most reliable goalscorers in recent years but is on the market. His current club are reluctant to give him a big new deal, so are aiming to sell him.
Abraham asking for huge wages
While a reduction in Abraham’s value may be appealing for his potential suitors, his wage demands remain high.
A report on Friday suggested Abraham will demand a whopping £130,000-a-week salary from any club he joins this summer.
It seems as though it is now personal terms that are preventing a deal. He currently earns in the region of £50,000-a-week and is eyeing considerably more.
The pandemic has affected finances throughout the football world and Abraham might need to lower his expectations.
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