Chelsea's preferred transfer pathway for long-term target Konstantinos Karetsas, an 18-year-old Greek and Belgian attacking midfielder, which would involve the player joining sister club Strasbourg before a subsequent move to Stamford Bridge, is considered unattractive by the player and his representatives. Consequently, Chelsea are not expected to pursue the deal with intensity. Karetsas joined KRC Genk in January 2024 and his contract is valid until 2029. In the 2025/2026 Jupiler Pro League season, he made 53 appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing 13 assists. He has also been capped 10 times for Greece, scoring 3 goals. Several other clubs have been linked with the player, including Milan and Borussia Dortmund. Recent reports from July 2026 mentioned negotiations between Borussia Dortmund and Genk, with a reported offer of €30 million and a demand of €35 million. His current market value is €35.00m, according to Transfermarkt.