Gonzalo Higuain has hinted that he plans on joining Chelsea permanently in the summer as he attempts to secure Champions League qualification for next campaign.
The South American striker has scored three goals in eight appearances for the Blues since his move from Italy in January.
Chelsea have responded well after a turbulent period both on and off the pitch but failed to leapfrog Arsenal and Manchester United into fourth in the Premier League with a win over Nuno Espírito Santo’s side.
Gonzalo Higuain has had domestic success with Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus down the years but the 31-year-old is desperate to win the Champions League – the one ‘missing’ trophy from his impressive list of honours.
‘Obviously, there have been some frustrations with my country, because we have not had luck in the World Cup,’ he said. ‘But with my clubs, I’m very happy with my career. Playing in the three best leagues in the world – Italy, Spain, England – is not within reach of many players.
‘So I’m very proud of that. I am satisfied, but I still have a dream to win the Champions League. It’s the missing one for me. ‘First we have to get there. It’s very important for Chelsea to be in that competition next season.’
Chelsea, who paid around £8 million as a loan fee to Juventus, have the option to sign Gonzalo Higuain permanently for £31m million at the end of the season. However, the Blues think that Turin giants could be tempted to drop their asking price for Argentina forward.