10 July 2023 , 09:05
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Roma star Paulo Dybala has broken his silence amid speculation over a move to Chelsea.
The Argentinian World Cup winner joined Jose Mourinho and co on a free transfer 12 months ago having cemented cult hero status at Juventus. The 29-year-old spent seven seasons with the 'Old Lady', winning five Serie A titles.
And he impressed in Rome in the 2022/23 campaign, scoring 18 times in all competitions and helping the club to the Europa League final. His form has caught the attention of the Blues, with new manager Mauricio Pochettino heavily linked with a move for his compatriot.
And Dybala further fuelled the rumours last week when shared a picture of him and his partner at Wimbledon last week. He followed that trip up by attending the British Grand Prix at Silverstone on Sunday afternoon.
Also at the F1 race was Chelsea centre back Thiago Silva, who admitted he'd discussed a potential move with the star: “I’ve asked Paulo Dybala if it’s true that he’s coming to Chelsea but he didn’t answer,” Silva confirmed. “He’s a top player, he’d be a massive signing for us — I’d like it.”
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Pochettino has been busy since walking through the door at Stamford Bridge, releasing a host of players whilst also bringing in Villarreal striker Nicolas Jackson. But a move for the ex-Palermo player would not make a big dent in his budget, with a release clause in his contract allowing him to join a team outside of Italy for just £10 million.
Chelsea have been linked with a move for Paulo Dybala (Getty Images)HAVE YOUR SAY! Would Paulo Dybala be a good signing for Chelsea? Comment below.
However, speaking himself to LAROMA24, Dybala denied his visit to London was for business as well as pleasure: ‘I’m motivated for pre-season, which we’re starting tomorrow (Monday)," he said. "My future? I’m happy at Roma. I’m staying here."
Dybala still has two years remaining on his deal in Serie A, and there has been little indication from Mourinho that he's prepared to let his key man go. But he caught the attention of top clubs after his cameo appearances in Qatar, coming on in both the semi final win over Croatia and then the final with France.
In the latter, he made a late crucial defensive clearance in the dying moments, before scoring the penalty in the shoot-out. Argentina eventually prevailed 4-2 on spot kicks to win the Jules Rimet trophy for the third time.