Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Chelsea transfer news: Maurizio Sarri given Mauro Icardi boost as star snubs Real Madrid
CHELSEA have been given a boost in their hunt for Inter Milan forward Mauro Icardi.
Man Utd target Mauro Icardi scores header against AC Milan
Real Madrid and the Blues have been touted as potential suitors.
However, the Argentine forward has revealed he’s not interested in a move to Los Blancos given their turbulent season.
"I do not think this is the right time, given the results - and I'm fine where I am,” he told Corriere dello Sport when asked about Real’s interest.
Maurizio Sarri is very familiar with Icardi from his time managing in Italy.
Chelsea transfer news: Maurizio Sarri is keen on Mauro Icardi
The west Londoners have been linked with a host of strikers as they look to bolster their front line in January.
Both Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata have misfired so far this season. Michy Batshuayi is on loan at Valencia.
Icardi was the second top scorer in Serie A last season, scoring 28 goals in 34 league appearances.
He has been in fine form again this term, having already scored nine goals in 12 games in all competitions.
ESPN FC pundit Paul Mariner says Icardi would be a clear upgrade on the strikers Chelsea already have.
“We’ve banded on about Morata, I think what Chelsea are doing is they are exploring their options,” Mariner said.
“Can they get Icardi? Will they want to sell him? I wouldn’t want to sell him.
“So would it be a good move? I’m not quite sure.
“Sarri knows way better than I do whether he would fit into Chelsea and fit into the Premier League.
“He’s a goalscorer, he puts the ball in the back off the net for fun.
“So, I like Morata, I’ve been banging the drum for him.
“But I’m going to say that would be a good move for Chelsea.”
Icardi is yet to sign fresh terms with Inter despite his stunning goalscoring exploits.
The 25 year olds hesitation has fuelled speculation that a move is imminent.
Icardi, however, insists he’ll sign - eventually.
"When the time comes, we will renew. There's time,” he added.
Chelsea face Fulham in west London derby tomorrow.