Transfer Rumors: Tuchel Showing No Signs Of Going After Haaland, Upamecano For Now

Thomas Tuchel is expected to make changes to the Chelsea roster, but by doing so, it may take time.

For now, he is trying to make the most out of his crew–short of saying he is filled with talented players.

Regardless, most believe that changes are forthcoming. Some players could be out by the summer. One name that has been suggested is striker Olivier Giroud.

The French football player could leave Stamford Bridge in the summer, meaning Tuchel will have to prowl for a replacement.

Right now, two names are getting linked to Chelsea. They are Erling Haaland and Dayot Upamecano. Both players are seen as the hot targets next transfer window, and the Blues have been singled out as one potential destination.

But as far as Tuchel is concerned, it would be best to cross the bridge when he gets there. He is showing respect to the teams of Haaland and Upamecano as he is fully aware that both are still under contract.

"Now it is February and there is a long way to go. As you get to know me, you will know I will not talk about other players who are under contract,” Tuchel said. "This is the type of respect I show. Everything else will be decided behind closed doors. I'm sorry."

It was a classy act for the German coach although the aura could change by summer. The fact is that both Haaland and Upamecano will be among the top players multiple clubs will pursue both.

For Upamecano, Chelsea is not the only one in pursuit. Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have also been mentioned.

It all boils down to which team can afford the required $52 million release clause that RB Leipzig is asking.

Haaland, on the other hand, owns a contract that is good up to 2024. Considered one of Europe’s top strikers at only 20, he will not be a cheap player to pluck. Chelsea and other clubs who plan to recruit Haaland are compelled to shell out a lofty $92 million.

Aside from the possible exit of Giroud, Haaland or Upamecano could be ideal recruits if the current cast continues to falter. That includes Timo Werner who is still struggling to find the back of the net.