Chelsea are interested in a move for Atalanta’s Honest Ahanor and have been handed encouragement over a deal.
The Italian joined La Dea from Genoa last summer and quickly became an important player in the backline. He played over 30 times in all competitions in the 2025/26 campaign at only 18, also featuring nine times in the Champions League.
This has led to many clubs in England maintaining an interest in the talent. Sport Witness have covered how Chelsea have spoken to Atalanta about a deal but the move could be a financial challenge.
Everything will come down to money.
Guintoli opens up on Ahanor
Atalanta held a press conference to unveil Eljif Elmas as a new signing on Tuesday. Sporting director Cristiano Guintoli was also present and he was asked about possible incomings and outgoings late in the window.
The Italian revealed that players like Ahanor have suitors but no offers have arrived.
He said – via TuttoAtalanta: “There’s a lot of interest in some of our players, but we haven’t received any offers yet, not even for Ahanor. If so, we’ll evaluate it.”
The outlet go on to make it clear that Chelsea have been enquiring about Ahanor. Brighton are also in the race, with the Bergamo club demanding at least €50m to sell the talent.
This could end up being very important for Atalanta. They are working to sign Jonathan Rowe and would be in need of a sale before convincing Bologna.
Our take: Blues should execute deal
Ahanor is a talent who can grow exponentially in the future. He has already showed maturity at a very young age and this season will be key for him.
There is no surprise Chelsea are interested. The 18-year-old started as a left-back but has now become a left-sided centre-back. Xabi Alonso has shown an inclination towards players with a dynamic profile and Ahanor fits the bill.
The Blues should, therefore, attempt a move right away and consider loaning him back to Atalanta for a season. That would convince the Italian side into the deal as they will keep hold of an important player for another campaign.
