DONE DEAL✅✅: After missing out on Olise and Williams, Chelsea is prepared to pay £60M for a top winger who is currently in advanced negotiations with Arsenal and Liverpool.
Chelsea Risks Losing Another Target to Arsenal
Chelsea faces the possibility of losing out on another player to their London rivals, Arsenal. Both clubs are in the market for a new attacker, and Chelsea has already missed out on Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise. Reports suggest Olise was Chelsea’s top target for the summer, but the 22-year-old is now close to joining Bayern Munich. This development leaves Chelsea needing to explore other options, potentially leading to a transfer battle with Arsenal and Mikel Arteta.
Current Targets:
Nico Williams: After losing the race for Olise, Chelsea has been heavily linked with Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. However, since Williams is a left winger, Chelsea might need a more direct replacement for Olise.
Johan Bakayoko: PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko is seen as a more like-for-like alternative to Olise. According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea is considering signing Bakayoko this summer. However, Arsenal is also interested in the 21-year-old and has already held talks with him about a move to the Emirates. Bakayoko could cost around €60 million (£50 million).
Bakayoko’s Performance:
Stats: Bakayoko’s stats highlight his effectiveness as a tricky winger. He averages 3.32 successful take-ons and 7.11 progressive carries per 90 minutes (FBref).
Goals and Assists: Last season, in 33 Eredivisie appearances, the Belgian international scored 12 goals and provided nine assists.
Chelsea’s Previous Experience:
Noni Madueke: While form in the Eredivisie doesn’t always translate to the Premier League, Chelsea has previously taken a chance on Noni Madueke from PSV in 2023. After failing to sign Olise, they might do the same with Bakayoko.
Conclusion
Bakayoko’s impressive numbers make him a strong alternative for Chelsea to consider. However, with Arsenal also interested, Chelsea may need to act quickly if they want to bring Bakayoko to Stamford Bridge this summer.