Who is Samu Omorodion? Meet 20-year-old Spanish attacker linked with summer transfer to Chelsea

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Chelsea are interested in signing 20-year-old Spanish attacker Samu Omorodion. A centre-forward by trade, Omorodion is owned by Atletico Madrid and spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Deportivo Alaves.

The Spain under-21 international scored nine goals and provided one assist in 36 appearances across competitions in the recently concluded season.

Omorodion was born in Melilla, Spain, to parents of Nigerian origin. He moved to Seville and joined AD Nervion as a youngster. After six seasons at the club, he joined Granada's academy in 2021.

The Spanish forward continued playing for Granada's reserve sides before eventually making his first team debut in the first La Liga game of the 2023-24 season. Samu Omorodion's performances for Granada's B teams had already put several Premier League clubs on notice.

Omorodion further raised his stock by scoring on his senior debut against Atletico Madrid, in a game that Granada lost 3-1. However, his performance was enough to earn him a move to Atletico Madrid.

Atletico spent €6 million to trigger Omorodion's release clause and add him to their ranks after only one senior game for Granada. He was immediately loaned out to Deportivo Alaves.

A bright season at Alaves has put Omorodion on the radar of top Premier League clubs. Chelsea are reportedly ready to start negotiations for the player, who is the first choice to lead Enzo Maresca's side's attack next season.

Chelsea's interest in Samu Omorodion underlines the club's transfer strategy

Since Todd Boehly and Co. took over at Chelsea, they have worked diligently in acquiring the top young talents in world football. Boehly's group has spent over €1 billion on signings.

The club have focused on signing talented players aged 25 or below from across the world. The recent reports linking them with Samu Omorodion highlight that the London side remain firm in their approach.

The Blues have Nicolas Jackson in their ranks, while David Datro Fofana has also returned from his loan spell at Burnley. Omorodion's potential arrival would make Enzo Maresca spoilt for choice next season.

Chelsea's transfer strategy, however, has also drawn skepticism. Many experts and fans feel the Blues should pursue a proven goalscorer instead of relying on inexperienced young players.