Chelsea are targeting Aston Villa attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers, with the club having a massive bid for the 22-year-old in the works. The Blues have been interested in Rogers in recent years. However, their seriousness was reaffirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Rogers has enjoyed a run of excellent performances this season, with 14 goals and 15 assists in 51 games across all competitions. He is just as comfortable on any flank, and he’s an enormous asset to whichever club owns him. It is no surprise that the Blues have shown interest, as Romano admitted:
“In England, Chelsea are for sure interested in Morgan Rogers.”
Aston Villa value Rogers at about £90 million. While they would rather not sell, the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules may necessitate a big sale if they are struggling financially. Chelsea’s interest would be compounded if they make the Champions League and Villa fail to.
Rogers has some previous experience with Blues’ boss Enzo Maresca, with whom he used to work in Manchester City’s youth team. His close friendship with Cole Palmer might also be a factor in his decision. Nevertheless, Aston Villa legend Gabby Agbonlahor has insisted that Rogers is not available, urging the club to hold on to their treasures.
Chelsea Continue Forward Hunt Beyond Morgan Rogers
While Chelsea’s pursuit of Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers is well known, the club is also thought to be eyeing some other forwards to strengthen their attack. Priority signings are Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, who has found a new lease of life with the German club and has netted 22 goals in all competitions. The Blues are competing with Arsenal and Liverpool for his services.
Ipswich Town midfielder Liam Delap is another player on the Blues’ wishlist. He has an active £30 million release clause because Ipswich were relegated to the Championship, making him an affordable option. Brighton & Hove Albion’s João Pedro is also on the radar, but has an estimated value of £59 million.
Moreover, the Blues are tracking Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyokeres and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. They are both reportedly interested in a move to the Bridge. Osimhen, who is currently loaned to Galatasaray, was set to sign for Chelsea last summer before the deal collapsed.