Could it be time to consider buying CSL (ASX:CSL) shares?

Will the CSL share price be heading higher from here?

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The CSL Limited (ASX: CSL) share price is out of form in 2021 and underperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

Since the start of the year, the biotherapeutics company's shares are down 2% to $279.14.

Could it be time to consider buying CSL shares?

A number of Australia's leading brokers have given their verdict on the CSL share price in recent months. And as you might expect due to COVID-19 uncertainties, opinion is largely divided on whether now is a good time to consider buying CSL shares.

Below is a summary of what brokers are saying about CSL shares in July 2021.

Citi

Citi currently has a neutral rating and $310.00 CSL share price target. This implies potential upside of 11% over the next 12 months. Citi is also forecasting a CSL dividend of $3.14 per share in FY 2021.

Goldman Sachs

Goldman Sachs has a neutral rating and CSL share price target of $305.00. If CSL shares hit this level, it will mean a gain of 9.2%. In addition, Goldman has pencilled in a CSL dividend of $2.81 this year.

Morgans

Morgans currently has an add rating and CSL share price target of $301.10. This represents a potential return of 7.9%. The broker is also forecasting a CSL dividend of $2.86 per share in FY 2021.

UBS

UBS is the most bullish broker with a buy rating and CSL share price target of $330.00. This implies potential upside of 18.2% over the next 12 months. UBS' analysts are forecasting a CSL dividend of ~$2.33 per share in 2021.

Broker comments

The team at Goldman Sachs explained why they are neutral on the CSL share price.

Goldman said: "We are Neutral rated on CSL. Our 12-month TP of A$305 is based on our target NTM EV/EBITDA multiple of 28.9x. Key upside risks include: (1) Faster-than-expected recovery in plasma collections; (2) More supportive pricing dynamic than we already expect; (3) Positive results from the pipeline. Key downside risks include: (1) Extent of disruption to plasma collections; (2) Threat of mRNA/competitive approaches to Seqirus vaccine business; (3) Competitive product launches; (4) Plasma donor fee inflation."

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of and has recommended CSL Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

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