After winning the Conference League and making it back to the Champions League, Chelsea is expected to spend a lot of money this summer.
If Chelsea can sign some of their top targets this summer, they will have a loaded roster when they return to the Champions League the following season.
Enzo Maresca’s team finished the season with a trophy after defeating Real Betis 4-1 in the Conference League final. The Blues’ victory over Nottingham Forest on the last day of the season put them in fourth place.
Since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital bought the team in 2022, Chelsea has spent over £1 billion on new players. As they go on to the next stage of their project, they want to spend a lot more money on new players.
Chelsea has been connected to a number of players in important areas, but they do not require a complete overhaul like has previously occurred.
However, who will relocate to Stamford Bridge, and what lineup might Chelsea have for the upcoming campaign? Here is a look at Chelsea’s top transfer targets, confirmed acquisitions, and potential lineups should their deals close.
Delap, Liam
According to numerous reports, Chelsea has already completed some of its business this summer by beating out numerous other teams to buy Liam Delap for £30 million.
The Ipswich Town player, who scored 12 goals in his first Premier League season, was targeted by both Newcastle and Manchester United.
However, Delap “has completed final part of medical tests at Chelsea” and may be regarded as their new player, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Chelsea hopes the 22-year-old, who also came from Manchester City’s youth, can be the attack focal point they need.
Maignan, Mike
The goalkeeping position at Chelsea is intriguing. They presently have seven goalkeepers on the roster, including those who were loaned out last season, and none of them seem to be at the necessary level.
Their number one, Robert Sanchez, is incredibly prone to mistakes, so it makes sense that they are being linked to new “keepers.” Journalist Simon Phillips of Chelsea claims that the team is “looking increasingly likely to now look to sign a new goalkeeper” and that Mike Maignan, a standout for AC Milan and France, is the top target.
Although Joan Garcia of Espanyol and Lucas Chevalier of Lille are also being watched, Maignan is perceived as the “priority” for goalkeeping.
Guehi Marc
According to sources, Chelsea is also looking for a new center defender and may consider one of its previous players.
Marc Guehi, the captain of Crystal Palace, rose through the levels at Chelsea but only had two appearances in the first team before being transferred in 2021 for £18 million.
Guehi, who is currently a regular for England, has many teams vying for his services since his contract expires in 2026. The Guardian claims that Chelsea is considering pursuing him this summer after taking a look at him in January. Another possibility is Jarrad Branthwaite, but he would probably fetch a far greater price.
Essugo Dario
Following a deal for Geovany Quenda, Chelsea has confirmed the signing of midfielder Dario Essugo from Sporting CP as part of their focus on acquiring intriguing young players.
Although the Portugal Under 21 international’s acquisition was unexpected, Essugo is unlikely to play a significant role in the starting lineup.
Gittens, Jamie
Despite Jadon Sancho’s goal in the Conference League final, it currently appears that Chelsea will not sign him on a permanent basis. However, the club already has their top aim to replace him; according to The Guardian, after discussing a move, they are considering a £50 million offer for Jamie Gittens of Borussia Dortmund.
Willian Estevao
Estevao Willian, an 18-year-old Brazilian sensation, is another new addition to Chelsea for the forthcoming campaign. He paid €34 million for the deal, plus a further €23 million in bonuses.
Although the agreement with Palmeiras was reached in June 2024, Estevao was scheduled to start on his eighteenth birthday, and there is a lot of enthusiasm about what he can contribute.
Chelsea starting lineup predictions: Guehi would be a great addition to a backline that includes Reece James, Levi Colwill, and the much-improved Marc Cucurella, while Maignan would be the ideal goalkeeper for Chelsea if they can close a deal.
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