Chelsea have now opened discussions with the representatives of a marquee forward, who Barcelona legend Ronaldinho says he loves watching, with manager Enzo Maresca seemingly looking to add more flair to his squad.
Chelsea target new winger this summer amid uncertain futures
Noni Madueke, Jadon Sancho and Mykhailo Mudryk face uncertain long-term futures at Stamford Bridge, meaning Chelsea could dip into the market for a new winger this summer.
Chelsea hold extensive talks to sign £38m ex-Fulham star who Mourinho wants
The Stamford Bridge legend is a long-time fan.
ByEmilio GalantiniMay 7, 2025
Mudryk faces a lengthy on-field ban after failing a drugs test, while some reports claim Sancho could be used in a Chelsea swap deal for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens, after the club trigger his obligation to buy clause.
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Chelsea are also open to selling Madueke, amid interest from Newcastle United and Aston Villa (GiveMeSport), while fellow attacker João Félix is also widely expected to depart west London again this summer after a lacklustre loan spell at AC Milan.
Sweeping changes are therefore anticipated at Chelsea ahead of another potentially busy summer, with reliable journalist Simon Phillips claiming a new wide player is among BlueCo’s top priorities.
Gittens is believed to be a key target, with talks already taking place ahead of the first window, which will open on June 1st and give Chelsea the chance to sign desired players before their Club World Cup campaign.
However, it is now believed that Gittens is emerging as a key target for Arsenal as well, so Maresca’s side face stiff competition from the Gunners, with some reports claiming the latter are favourites as things stand (Ruhr Nachrichten).
Chelsea hold discussions with AC Milan star Rafael Leao
According to Calciomercato journalist Daniele Longo, Chelsea have their eyes on a superstar alternative to Gittens – AC Milan forward Rafael Leao.
The Portugal international is a key player for Milan, amid reports that his contract includes a sky-high release clause of around £149 million, which will reportedly only be active from July 5th to July 15th (Foot Mercato).
The clause can also be paid in multiple installments, making it slightly easier for interested parties, but this is still a hefty investment to say the least. Clubs will most likely look to whittle down this monstrous price, and Chelsea are believed to have held informal discussions with Leao’s camp ahead of a potential move, alongside Al-Nassr.
The main question is – would Leao be worth the effort? The 25-year-old’s return of 12 goals and 13 assists this season tells just half the story, with Ronaldinho on record stating that Leao is one of his favourite players to watch.
“Leao does not need my advice,” said the Brazil icon.
“He is a great player. He is one of the players I most enjoy watching.”