Higuain closes in on Chelsea loan move

Juventus striker Gonzalo Higuain looks set to be reunited with former coach Maurizio Sarri as Chelsea agree a deal to sign the striker for the remainder of the season.

Sarri worked with the 31-year-old at Napoli when Higuain was at his most prolific scoring 36 goals in 35 appearances in the 2015/16 season.

This triggered Italian giants Juventus to meet the Argentinian international’s reported €90 million clause with the then 28-year-old and the Argentine scored 24 league goals in his first season with the Old Lady.

The arrival of superstar Cristiano Ronaldo saw game time cut coming into the current season, forcing Higuain to go on loan to AC Milan. His time at Milan appears to be over, however, as he has asked to leave and is keen on a move to west London.

The switch would allow Alvaro Morata to leave Stamford Bridge with Sevilla and Atletico Madrid apparently both keen to take the Spanish striker for at least the rest of the season.

The Argentine’s arrival would be a boost for Chelsea who often rely on Eden Hazard for goals in big matches, Morata mustering just five so far this campaign.

Higuain managed only six goals in the Serie A during his spell with AC Milan but may be rejuvenated under his former coach as the Blues look to secure Champions League qualification in the Premier League, overturn a first-leg deficit to Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-finals and also compete in the FA Cup and Europa League.

It is rumoured that should Higuain manage to impress those at Stamford Bridge the deal could be extended for a further year as Chelsea’s fans hope the experienced striker proves a shrewd addition to Sarri’s squad.