Samuel Eto’o Linked with Move to China Amid Chelsea Departure and Mourinho Conflict
Cameroonian striker Samuel Eto’o is reportedly set to leave Chelsea this summer, with Guangzhou Evergrande emerging as a potential destination for the 33-year-old. The striker’s contract at Stamford Bridge expires in the coming months, and negotiations are already underway with the Chinese club, according to Goal.
Eto’o’s time at Chelsea has been marred by a public conflict with manager José Mourinho. The powerful forward, who has netted 12 goals in 34 appearances this season, was angered by Mourinho’s comments about his age earlier in the campaign. The Chelsea boss mocked Eto’o during an interview with Canal+, prompting the striker to celebrate a goal by miming the actions of an elderly person, a gesture seen as a response to the jibes. Eto’o later publicly lashed out, calling Mourinho a “puppet” and an “idiot.”
Despite the tension at Chelsea, Eto’o has continued to perform, and his experience and pedigree are attracting interest from abroad. Guangzhou Evergrande, managed by former Italy coach Marcello Lippi, is eager to bolster its attacking options and has made the Cameroonian forward a top priority. Lippi, who is keen to add a player with significant international experience, sees Eto’o as an ideal candidate to strengthen his frontline.
However, Eto’o’s high salary demands are a point of contention in the negotiations. The striker is reportedly seeking €10 million per season, a figure that has yet to be agreed upon, and could prove a stumbling block in the transfer process.
In the event that Eto’o’s wage demands cannot be met, Guangzhou Evergrande is also considering alternatives. Genoa’s Alberto Gilardino is reportedly on the club’s radar, with the Italian side demanding €5 million for their striker.
Meanwhile, Chelsea appears to be moving on from Eto’o, with the club reportedly targeting Atlético Madrid’s Diego Costa as a potential replacement for next season. The future of the veteran striker now hangs in the balance as he considers his options in China and beyond.
