As the final month of the summer transfer window unfolds, Chelsea are navigating both new arrivals and departures while preparing for the upcoming Premier League season.
With less than two weeks until their opening fixture against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, 17th August, Chelsea fans are eagerly anticipating potential new faces in the squad. This summer, the likes of Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Liam Delap have already made the switch to West London, while Noni Madueke, Joao Felix, and Djordje Petrovic have departed.
With transfer dealings still in full swing, attention has now turned to further bolstering the team. Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reports that Chelsea are on the brink of securing a verbal agreement with RB Leipzig sensation Xavi Simons. The young Dutch playmaker has been closely monitored by the Blues, who are reportedly ready to table an official offer, contingent upon player sales. This move is considered separate from Chelsea’s ongoing interest in Alejandro Garnacho.
Chelsea’s strategy of securing an agreement for Simons hinges on their ability to offload players who no longer feature in the club’s long-term plans. Prospects like Marc Guiu and Tyrique George are anticipated to leave on loan, while permanent exits for Raheem Sterling and Armando Broja are favoured.
In other transfer news, Chelsea are reportedly keeping an eye on Lyon’s promising winger Malick Fofana. BBC Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella notes that while Everton initially pushed for Fofana’s signature, their pursuit has hit a snag, resulting in a pivot towards Southampton’s Tyler Dibling. This development could position Chelsea to make a play for the talented winger.
Should Chelsea act on their interest in Fofana, it would likely depend on the completion of deals for Xavi Simons and potentially Alejandro Garnacho, as well as the successful offloading of existing squad members. Importantly, the allure of Champions League football next season could give Chelsea a significant edge over Everton in any potential pursuit of Fofana.
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