Chelsea are reportedly convinced that a high-profile Brazilian player has the potential to become a key star for Enzo Maresca in the upcoming season. A transfer for this player is anticipated to materialize “soon”.
Summer Striker Search Heats Up
Earlier in the week, Chelsea reportedly agreed a deal to sign Ipswich striker Liam Delap. The 22-year-old Englishman is expected to be one of the summer`s first confirmed arrivals at Stamford Bridge, barring any unforeseen issues.
Delap reportedly had alternative offers from clubs including Manchester United, Newcastle, and Everton. However, he began to favour a move to Chelsea, particularly after the club secured Champions League qualification. It is also reported that new manager Enzo Maresca played a “crucial” role in persuading the former Manchester City youngster to choose Chelsea.
Delap is now scheduled for a medical examination at Cobham ahead of an anticipated £30 million transfer from Portman Road.
While the deal for Delap appears close, this doesn`t seem to signify the end of Chelsea`s search for new attackers. With Champions League football secured and potential player sales on the horizon to boost transfer funds, there`s a possibility Chelsea could sign two strikers this summer. Furthermore, the BlueCo ownership group is actively targeting a winger, and Real Madrid star Rodrygo is reportedly high on their shortlist.
Rodrygo: The £84m Prize
Real Madrid values the Brazilian international at £84 million. Last season, the 24-year-old made 50 appearances, contributing significantly with 13 goals and 10 assists.
According to reports from Spain, Chelsea views Rodrygo as potentially one of Maresca`s “crown jewels” next season and envisions a crucial role for him within the squad. While it`s reported that London rivals Arsenal have already engaged in informal discussions regarding the player, who earns £202,000 per week, Chelsea is also expected to hold similar talks in the near future.
Chelsea is reportedly keen to make a “statement” signing this summer and anticipates a very busy transfer window, especially following their successful qualification for the Champions League. Rodrygo is believed to be a player who “ticks all the boxes” for the club`s requirements.
Jude Bellingham, his teammate at Real Madrid, has praised Rodrygo:
“Rodrygo, so underrated. For me he’s probably the most talented and most gifted player in the squad. The things he can do with the football — we’ll be messing around and he’ll flick the ball up somehow and you’re like, ‘How do you do that?’. I’m trying to do it, twisting up my ankles and everything like that. He’s a pleasure to play with.”
