Chelsea have reportedly been told that Erling Haaland will cost at least £150m if they want to sign him this transfer window - despite being available for a cut price fee next summer due to a release clause in his contract.
With Borussia Dortmund standing firm by their price, it has been reported that the German giants sensationally turned down Chelsea's informal player-plus-cash proposal for the Norweigan talisman on Thursday.
A source close to discussion told Sky Sports News that Dortmund are "determined" not to sell their prized asset and that the Blues face "mission impossible" in their bid to sign him.
Haaland, widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, scored an impressive 48 times inside 51 games for club and country last season - with clubs around Europe queuing up to secure his sought-after signature.
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Making their first move, Chelsea are understood to have offered Dortmund either Tammy Abraham or Callum Hudson-Odoi in part exchange for Haaland, but the Bundesliga giants are determined to keep the 20-year-old.
Further reports claim Roman Abramovich has released £150 million for the Blues to use in a potential deal for the young phenom - despite a £70m release clause in his contract that becomes active in 2022.
Even with a Champions League title etched to their name, Thomas Tuchel's side lacked a reliable presence in the penalty area last season, with Timo Werner and Abraham's 12 goals each making them the club's joint-top scorers.
And as a result of their poor form in front of goal, it comes as no surprise of Chelsea's intentions to sign a new striker, with the Blues also said to be interested in Romelu Lukaku and Harry Kane.
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As for Haaland, though, Manchester United and Real Madrid are other sides that have considered offering a premium price for the Norway captain before the transfer window closes at the end of August.
According to Sky in Germany, Haaland's agent Mino Raiola is also asking for a commission of €40m (£34.2m) as part of any deal for the Dortmund striker.
But Dortmund will not be keen to lose another key player so soon, especially after allowing Jadon Sancho to join the Red Devils, whose £73m move to Old Trafford is expected to be confirmed within days.
Topics: Chelsea, Erling Haaland, Borussia Dortmund