LISBON, PORTUGAL – NOVEMBER 22: Sporting CP’s Konrad Harder during the Portuguese Cup match between Sporting CP and Amarante FC at Jose Alvalade Stadium on November 22, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal Celebrate after scoring a goal. (Photo by Galter Fatia/Getty Images)
Chelsea believe they can sign Sporting CP prodigy Konrad Harder, according to a new report.
The 19-year-old striker, who has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge via TBR football reporter Graeme Bailey, is tipped to be the next Victor Chokeres. The Sweden international is set to leave the club this summer after impressing in Portugal and it is believed the teenager will replace him as the main focus in goal.
In his limited playing time, Harder has already attracted a lot of attention, scoring nine goals and dishing out six assists in just 1,300 minutes. His performances were so good that some clubs began to turn their attention away from Joe Kreis and towards the young Dane.
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At 22, Harder is seven years younger than the former Coventry City man, making him even more attractive to teams focused on signing young talent with long-term potential – certainly as is Chelsea.
The club, which rarely signs players over the age of 25, has a huge responsibility in buying the best young talent from around the world, and they have been keeping a close eye on Harder’s development at Sporting Lisbon.
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In fact, according to transfer expert Bailey, Chelsea are “backing themselves” to eventually snap up the Dane. This is because they are more keen on tracking him than other interested suitors.
“They liked Conrad Harder very much,” he told Chelsea Chronicle. “He’s a fascinating player who was obviously signed by Sporting as a replacement for Victor Chokeres. He’s really a huge talent and we’ve seen Chelsea really spot those players.
“[For example] looking for [Aghehowa]who they were looking at, long before anyone else. Chelsea back themselves here, so keep an eye on Harder. He’s a very, very talented guy who fits what Chelsea want to do. “
