Chelsea set to miss out on Alajbegovic as he reaches groundbreaking agreement with Juventus
Juventus has landed Bayer Leverkusen starlet Kerim Alajbegovic in a €20m deal, according to reports.
The 18-year-old Bosnian talent had been a target for Chelsea, who wanted to bring him to Stamford Bridge to work with Xabi Alonso. However, the Italian giants have now secured a 'groundbreaking agreement' with Alajbegovic.
Chelsea's interest in Alajbegovic was reportedly driven by his impressive form in the Austrian Bundesliga, where he scored nine goals and three assists in 28 appearances last season. He also carried that form into the 2026 World Cup, scoring a goal before his team's early elimination.
The Chelsea front office was reportedly keen on signing Alajbegovic to work with Alonso, who knows the youngster well from their time together in Germany.
However, it appears that Chelsea could not guarantee Alajbegovic playing time, and instead proposed a loan deal. This move ultimately led Alajbegovic to choose Juventus.
Alajbegovic's signing is a significant blow for Chelsea, who are already well-stocked on the left wing with the arrival of Morgan Rogers and the return of Jamie Gittens.
The Italian side can offer Alajbegovic a more straightforward development route, which may be beneficial for the young player.
Chelsea have made a habit of stockpiling young talents, only for many to spend years bouncing between loan clubs. This approach benefits nobody – not the club and certainly not the players.
In reality, this may be the best outcome for everyone involved, as Chelsea have left-wing depth and can focus on nurturing their elite prospects.
The Blues have other more pressing areas they need to spend money on, and can now focus on those priorities.
Jesse Derry, a highly-rated youngster, is expected to return from his loan spell next season and push for a place in the senior squad.
Chelsea can now focus on developing the players they already possess, rather than adding another name to an already overcrowded pipeline.
It remains to be seen how Alajbegovic will adapt to life in Turin, but for now, it appears that Juventus has landed a significant coup.
Source: Yahoo Sports
