Chelsea transfer chiefs are in the market for new attackers whilst Enzo Maresca’s men tackle their Club World Cup campaign, with the Blues looking to provide their manager with extra firepower ahead of a crucial second season for him.
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Maresca won his first piece of silverware by smashing Real Betis 4-1 in the Conference League final, and before that, he guided Chelsea to a top five Premier League finish which gifted them a spot in next season’s Champions League draw.
The Italian’s first season in the Chelsea dugout was an undoubted success, and he could still add to their celebrations with a potential Club World Cup triumph in America.
|
Chelsea’s best performers in the Premier League last season |
Average match rating |
|---|---|
|
Cole Palmer |
7.33 |
|
Moises Caicedo |
7.02 |
|
Enzo Fernández |
6.95 |
|
Nicolas Jackson |
6.88 |
|
Noni Madueke |
6.82 |
|
via WhoScored |
|
Winning the CWC could bring a seismic financial windfall of nearly £100 million to Cobham’s coffers, so despite the tournament’s controversy, it is little surprise that sides taking part are serious about performing well.
A portion of their final earnings from the CWC could be put towards Chelsea’s recruitment drive, and it is widely believed that they’re prioritising the signing of a new winger in particular.
Chelsea are back in talks to sign Borussia Dortmund forward Jamie Gittens as their top target for this position, despite having as many as three bids rejected for the Englishman before the pre-CWC transfer deadline (Florian Plettenberg).
As negotiations re-open for the Englishman, there are suggestions that Chelsea could even bring in two wingers this summer, especially if they end up selling Noni Madueke, which is seen as a real possibility (Simon Phillips).
Jadon Sancho’s return to Man United and news of Mykhailo Mudryk’s potential four-year ban for allegedly violating anti-doping rules has exacerbated Maresca’s need for a new forward, while Chelsea also remain on the hunt for a second striker after Liam Delap.
Chelsea hold talks over Brighton star Joao Pedro
One man who’s on Chelsea radar, and can play out wide, in attacking midfield or up front, comes in the form of Brighton star Joao Pedro.
The Brazil international bagged 10 goals and seven assists for Fabian Hurzeler’s side across all competitions last term, prompting rumoured interest from Chelsea and Premier League rivals Newcastle United.
According to Standard Sport, Chelsea have held talks over Pedro, and those conversations are continuing behind-the-scenes as BlueCo look to reinforce Maresca’s squad with further attacking additions.
This follows a report from talkSPORT that Newcastle are fearful of a Chelsea move for the 23-year-old, with there being concerns inside St. James’ Park that they could hijack their deal.
The sticking point will likely be Pedro’s £70 million valuation, but according to ex-Premier League chief scout Mick Brown recently, the player has spoken to friends about potentially joining Chelsea this summer, so there could be a willingness on the player’s side.
“I hear he’s spoken to people around him about a move, and he would be interested in Chelsea,” Brown told Football Insider.
“He wants to make a step up from Brighton as they’re going to miss out on European football again. It’s just a case of whether they decide he’s the right man for the job.”
