Chelsea target Andreas Schjelderup as Benfica fight to keep winger

Chelsea remain firmly interested in Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup, but the Portuguese club are making a determined effort to prevent one of their brightest talents from leaving this summer.

The Norway international enhanced his reputation with an outstanding World Cup campaign, attracting renewed attention from several Premier League clubs. While Chelsea continue to monitor his situation, Benfica manager Marco Silva has reportedly intervened personally in an attempt to persuade the 22-year-old to stay in Lisbon.

With contract talks at a standstill, Benfica now face a crucial decision over one of their most valuable assets.

According to Correio da Manhã, Silva has held direct talks with Schjelderup, making it clear that the winger remains a key part of his plans.

The Benfica manager is understood to have told the Norwegian he sees him as fundamental to both his tactical system and the club's long-term project.

However, convincing the player may prove difficult. Schjelderup has yet to respond to Benfica's latest contract proposal, having reportedly decided that the time is right to test himself in one of Europe's biggest leagues.

Currently on holiday following Norway's World Cup campaign, the winger is not expected to return until later this month, delaying any immediate progress on his future.

Chelsea are among the clubs closely following developments after Schjelderup impressed on the international stage.

The winger scored against England in the World Cup quarter-finals and also registered two assists for Erling Haaland during Norway's memorable victory over Brazil, performances that significantly increased his market value.

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with Schjelderup in recent months, although Chelsea are the only Premier League side highlighted in the latest reports from Portugal.

Any deal is expected to require a substantial investment. While Benfica had previously valued the attacker at around €40 million, recent reports suggest that figure has now risen closer to €50 million following his World Cup displays.

Despite Silva's desire to keep Schjelderup, Benfica's financial situation could ultimately shape the outcome.

The Portuguese giants are understood to be open to a sale after missing out on Champions League qualification, with a significant transfer likely to help balance the club's finances.

Schjelderup's stock has never been higher after contributing 10 goals and seven assists in 43 appearances last season before impressing on football's biggest stage.

Benfica have already offered the former FC Nordsjælland winger a new contract running until 2031, but with no agreement yet reached, the possibility of a high-value transfer continues to grow.

Benfica are expected to resume contract discussions when Schjelderup returns from his post-World Cup break. If no breakthrough is reached, Chelsea could be among the clubs to test the Portuguese side's resolve later in the transfer window, although Benfica are unlikely to entertain offers below their revised valuation.

Should Chelsea make a move for Andreas Schjelderup this summer, or would Benfica be right to keep hold of one of their brightest young stars?