Chelsea send scouts to watch Bologna striker Santiago Castro as Blues consider January move for centre-forward

Chelsea scouts were present at Bologna’s recent Serie A fixtures to monitor Castro, according to Il Resto del Carlino via Tuttomercatoweb. The 21-year-old Argentine has impressed with his movement, link-up play, and technical ability since joining the Italian side from Velez Sarsfield for €13.2 million in January 2024. Despite recording just one goal and one assist in five Serie A appearances this season, his performances have been closely tracked by multiple European clubs.

Bologna are aware of the growing interest in their young striker, with Inter Milan and Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr having already explored potential deals over the summer. Castro remains under contract until June 2028, putting the Serie A club in a strong position to demand a significant transfer fee. Reports in Italy suggest that Bologna would only consider offers in the €50 million (£43.4m) range, given his development trajectory and potential. 

The scouting mission underlines Chelsea’s continued commitment to identifying emerging talent in key positions. Enzo Maresca, who is keen to introduce more tactical flexibility to his forward line, views Castro as a long-term project rather than an immediate solution. For now, no formal approach has been made, but Chelsea are expected to continue monitoring the Argentine closely in the weeks leading up to the January transfer window.

Chelsea’s interest in Castro reflects a broader trend under the club’s ownership — heavy investment in young, high-upside forwards as they attempt to solve a lingering striker dilemma. Over the past year, the Blues have spent big on attacking options, including Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Marc Guiu. Despite these signings, inconsistency in front of goal has persisted, prompting further scouting activity.  

The London club’s recruitment model has often been described as a “carousel” of strikers, with numerous young players competing for limited opportunities. The addition of another prospect like Castro would only intensify that internal competition. Nonetheless, Chelsea’s hierarchy remains convinced that stacking depth with developing forwards will eventually produce a breakout star capable of leading the line. Bologna’s reluctance to sell mid-season, however, may delay any potential move until the summer of 2026. 

Castro rose through the ranks at Velez Sarsfield, where he made his professional debut in 2021. After three seasons in Argentina — tallying 61 appearances and eight goals — he made the switch to Bologna, where he has become a regular in Vincenzo Italiano’s attacking rotation. Standing 6ft tall, Castro is known for his sharp positioning, aerial strength, and off-the-ball movement.  

At just 21, Castro is already being considered for a senior Argentina call-up after representing his nation at multiple youth levels. For Bologna, Castro has already made a tangible impact, contributing to their 2024–25 Coppa Italia triumph and delivering a standout performance in a 3–3 draw against Juventus last year. His growing influence has made him one of Serie A’s most-watched young forwards, with scouts from England, Spain, and Germany frequently in attendance at Bologna matches. As his form stabilises, his valuation is expected to continue rising, making him one of Italy’s hottest transfer prospects. 

Chelsea are set to continue monitoring Castro throughout the remainder of 2025, with further scouting trips likely planned as Bologna’s domestic and European campaigns progress. Any formal discussions would likely depend on player availability and Bologna’s willingness to engage, with the Italian side determined to retain their core attacking assets until at least the summer.

Given Chelsea’s current attacking depth, a January move remains uncertain — though the club could view an early deal as a way to get ahead of rival bidders. Bologna, meanwhile, are in no rush to cash in, particularly with Castro under a long-term contract and continuing to develop under Motta. For now, the Blues will keep a watchful eye on his progress, as their search for a reliable, long-term No.9 shows no signs of slowing.