Chelsea target deal for Europe's most in-form winger

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Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Chelsea are reportedly among the clubs keeping a close eye on the progress of Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni ahead of a potential approach next year.

The Argentina international only scored three goals in 41 appearances across all competitions for Benfica last season, but he has taken a major step forward this term and he has established himself as arguably the most in-form winger in Europe.

Prestianni has scored eight goals and provided three assists in just 12 matches so far this campaign and Chelsea have now registered their interest in his signature, according to a report from TEAMtalk.

Brighton & Hove Albion, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to have made checks on the 20-year-old this season, and he is set to be the subject of significant transfer interest next summer if he continues his current hot streak in front of goal.

Benfica are yet to receive any formal approaches for Prestianni, but they are aware of growing interest in his signature and they are keen to tie him down to a new long-term contract in a bid to dissuade his increasing list of suitors.

The Argentina’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at just €11.5 million, however this is expected to increase shortly amid his impressive recent form, and Benfica are likely to demand a hefty fee next summer as they look to maximise the potential profit they could earn.

Analysis: Will Chelsea sign Gianluca Prestianni?

While Prestianni has enjoyed an extremely impressive start to the new season, a move to Chelsea seems highly unlikely unless Xabi Alonso’s side sanction the permanent sale of Jamie Gittens next summer.

The England U21 international has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter since his arrival at Stamford Bridge, but he is still regarded as a bright prospect by the club’s hierarchy and a move for Prestianni will only make sense if Gittens departs.

Chelsea also have Morgan Rogers and Geovany Quenda as options on the left flank, while Jesse Derry and Ryan Kavuma-McQueen could both be integrated into the senior set-up next year following loan spells away from the club in 2026-27.

As a result, a move for Prestianni appears unlikely to be sanctioned, despite his eye-catching form in front of goal.