In a move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Chelsea are reportedly plotting an astonishing £70 million bid to bring former player Alexandre Pato back to Stamford Bridge from AC Milan.
The Brazilian striker, now 34, had a brief and largely forgettable six-month loan spell with the Blues back in 2016, managing just two appearances and a single goal. His return would represent one of the most surprising transfer U-turns in recent Premier League history.
The Staggering Financial Package
According to exclusive reports from Italy, Chelsea's ambitious owner Todd Boehly is prepared to sanction a massive financial package to secure the unexpected deal. The proposed offer includes a £13 million transfer fee to Milan, with the remaining £57 million allocated to Pato's wages over a proposed three-year contract.
This potential move comes as Chelsea continue their desperate search for attacking reinforcements, having struggled to find consistent goal-scoring form throughout the current campaign.
Pato's Renaissance in Brazil
Since returning to his homeland, Pato has experienced something of a career resurgence with São Paulo. The former wonderkid has rediscovered his scoring touch, netting 18 goals in 59 appearances and demonstrating the kind of form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after talents during his initial spell at Milan.
His performances have apparently convinced Chelsea's recruitment team that he could provide a short-term solution to their attacking woes, despite his advancing years and previous underwhelming stint in English football.
A Pattern of Unexpected Moves
This potential transfer aligns with Chelsea's recent strategy of making unexpected, headline-grabbing moves in the market. The Blues have developed a reputation for pursuing both emerging talents and established stars under Boehly's ownership, though a return for Pato would arguably be their most surprising move yet.
Football insiders suggest that while the financial aspects of the deal have been discussed, significant hurdles remain before any agreement could be reached between the clubs and the player.
