According to a report by Football Transfer on Monday, November 2, 2026, Chelsea are prepared to compete with Arsenal for the signature of Monza striker Gustavo Varela after reportedly sending scouts to monitor the youngster during Saturday's match.

The 21-year-old maintained his impressive scoring form by finding the net in Monza's 2-1 defeat to Bologna, taking his total to 11 goals this season. His performances have attracted attention from several top European clubs.

Varela has enjoyed an impressive start to his career in Italian football since joining Monza from Benfica in July, recording 11 goals in 20 appearances. Arsenal are among the clubs monitoring his progress, with manager Mikel Arteta reportedly considering the Portugal Under-21 international as a potential attacking addition next year.

However, Arsenal are not alone in their pursuit of the young forward. According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also sent scouts to Monza's weekend fixture to assess his performances.

Representatives from Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Brentford, Brighton and Hove Albion, Fulham, Newcastle United and RB Leipzig were also reportedly present at the Renato Dall'Ara Stadium in Bologna to watch the striker.

Monza paid approximately €2.5 million to sign Varela from Benfica during the summer transfer window. His Estimated Transfer Value has since climbed to nearly €5 million following his impressive performances, although it could increase further if he continues his current goalscoring form.

Chelsea strengthened their forward line during the summer by signing Emmanuel Emegha and Danny Welbeck. However, reports indicate that neither player has fully convinced manager Xabi Alonso, potentially prompting the club to pursue another striker next year.

This became evident during Saturday's encounter against Manchester United, when Pedro Neto was selected to lead Chelsea's attack in the absence of the injured Joao Pedro.

Meanwhile, recognised centre-forwards Welbeck and Emegha both began the match on the substitutes' bench.

Alonso's selection could indicate that he is not completely satisfied with his available attacking alternatives and wants to bring in another quality forward. Varela's impressive displays this season could therefore make him an attractive option as Chelsea consider their future transfer plans.

Nevertheless, Chelsea are expected to face strong competition for the Portuguese youngster, with Arsenal, Tottenham and several other European clubs also keeping a close eye on his development.