Chelsea Football Club is reportedly interested in AC Milan forward Francesco Camarda, who has garnered attention for becoming the youngest Italian to compete in the Champions League. Zlatan Ibrahimovic has praised Camarda, stating he is "better" than he was at the same age.
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Since the acquisition of Chelsea by BlueCo in 2022, the club has focused on acquiring young talent. During the summer transfer window of 2026, manager Xabi Alonso reinforced this strategy, signing six players aged 23 or younger.
Camarda, widely considered one of Europe's brightest young strikers, made history by debuting in Serie A at just 15 years and 260 days old against Fiorentina in November 2023. At 16 years and 226 days, he became the youngest Italian to appear in the Champions League. Despite recently signing a long-term deal with Milan in 2024, Camarda spent the previous season on loan at Lecce before returning to AC Milan under a buy-back clause.
He made his senior debut for Italy under coach Silvio Bandini, contributing to a 1-0 victory over Luxembourg. However, his playtime in Serie A this season has been limited to just eight minutes, prompting speculation about his future at Milan. Although Milan remains committed to Camarda, Chelsea may test the club's resolve.
Camarda has made 18 first-team appearances for AC Milan and has scored four goals in four matches for Italy's under-21 team. Ibrahimovic has highlighted the potential of the young striker, indicating that protecting and nurturing his talent is crucial for the future of Milan.