Chelsea have pulled out of the process to sign winger Michael Olise from Crystal Palace.
The west London side contacted Palace last Thursday to express an interest in Olise and request permission to speak with his camp.
That was granted and Chelsea indicated they wanted an outcome by the end of this week.
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Chelsea made what they believed to be their strongest offer but felt the finances involved were beyond reach and chose not to proceed.
The Stamford Bridge hierarchy are aiming to create a more disciplined wage bill than in the past and if a transfer target does not fit into that they would rather reward existing players who out-perform over time or invest in new elite talent on more reasonable salaries.
While there is no doubt about Chelsea’s pursuit of Olise — for the second summer running — its potential impact on their squad balance and depth meant the conditions needed to be right.
They already have left-footed attackers in the form of Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, Omari Hutchinson and Angelo Gabriel. Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez are scheduled to follow in 2025.
Despite hopes ending of Olise being added to that list, Chelsea’s talks with his representatives and Palace chairman Steve Parish are said to have been very cordial.
Confidence at Chelsea remains high that recently-appointed head coach Enzo Maresca and his team — which is likely to include two attacking additions this summer — will excel next season and secure Champions League qualification for the 2025-26 campaign.
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