With deadline day fast approaching, Chelsea have now reportedly entered talks with a midfield star as they continue to consider one last blockbuster deal.
Chelsea chasing deadline-busting signings
There are still a number of loose ends for Chelsea in the transfer window. The Blues initially enjoyed a flurry of arrivals such as Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, but have since struggled to get deals over the line for both Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho. The latest on both targets is that moves are reportedly ongoing, with the RB Leipzig man even back playing for his club to start the season.
The talented Dutchman would complete Enzo Maresca’s new-look frontline and perhaps add that missing consistency to his side. Chelsea fans have, of course, seen the best and worst of their side already this season, with a 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace followed by a 5-1 thumping of West Ham United.
When asked about his attacking options following Chelsea’s 5-0 victory at the London Stadium, Maresca told reporters: “You need balance. You need Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, you need Trev, Tosin, Cucu, Malo. The attacking players are important, but at the same time so are the defensive players.”
A player capable of dropping into the No.10 role whilst also drifting onto both flanks would certainly help offer that balance. The same can be said for another target, however, with Chelsea – one way or another – lining up one last blockbuster move this summer.
Chelsea in talks with Fermin Lopez
As reported by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Chelsea are now in talks with Fermin Lopez and his camp with BlueCo now considering a move to sign the Barcelona midfielder. The 22-year-old could be allowed to leave the Nou Camp this month thanks to the depth that the Spanish giants already have in his attacking midfield role and he could be an ideal alternative to Simons.
Minutes
1,252
2,150
Goals
6
10
Assists
5
6
Key Passes P90
2.09
2.13
In fewer appearances last season, Lopez more than showed his quality compared to Simons. With the equivalent of around 14 La Liga games, the young Barcelona starlet managed 10 goal involvements compared to Simons’ 16 in around 24 games.
Whilst any potential move is still in the early stages, Chelsea would be welcoming a player who has the potential to become world-class in years to come in Lopez.
Described as “technically brilliant” by analyst Ben Mattinson, the prospect of a partnership between Cole Palmer and the La Masia graduate should be enough to excite Chelsea fans. Whether the Blues step up their chase to secure his signature remains to be seen, however.
