Vlahovic is starting to be touted around for 2026, with his contract expiring at the end of this season, and sources have confirmed that Chelsea are one of the teams keen on being kept in the loop.
It is an interesting prospect that would add to their current striker options, but the Juventus forward has been on their radar for some time.
His good start to the season in Serie A has not led to enhanced chances of him staying with Juve, and he is likely to become a sought-after asset in the new year when clubs can start to make formal advances.
Vlahovic, 25, has an interest in playing in England and could help Chelsea sharpen their squad.
The Blues have been rebuilding and, in 2026, will look to add some top-level talent that gives them a stronger core.
A striker, centre-back and goalkeeper would give them a better chance of being taken seriously as title challengers and European heavyweights - and away from Vlahovic, they have already been eyeing some good options for the back-line.
Marc Guehi rose through the club’s Academy, and while some sources have played down the chances of him making a return, the idea should not yet be totally discounted.
Our understanding is that Guehi is viewing his next transfer move with a clean slate after Liverpool failed to seal a deal for him in the summer - and the prospect of staying in London has its upside.
Chelsea continue to look at other defenders, but the fact that Guehi - who is also admired by Liverpool and Bayern Munich - is available as a free agent in the summer adds a sense of intrigue and value.
Meanwhile, they will almost certainly sign a goalkeeper, and we have reported how they remain keen on Mike Maignan.
His contract at AC Milan is starting to wind down, and he could bring a level of top-class experience between the sticks that could give the team - and boss Enzo Maresca - a new sense of confidence.
Their exact plans are expected to become clearer over the next six weeks, but the new year certainly brings a sense of opportunity in the market that suits Chelsea in this phase of rebuilding.
