The Chelsea Chronicle understands that BlueCo are going to have scouts in attendance at the upcoming Under 17 World Cup, and are already well aware of one striker who is set to feature.
Blues fans will already have a keen eye on the competition, after Reggie Walsh was called up to represent England, with the tournament getting underway on November 3.
Landon Emenalo was also called up by the Young Lions, and with how the Chelsea model has worked since Todd Boehly and co took over makes a competition like this where their scouts will really earn their money.
One of the most promising young talents who is set to take part in the U17 World Cup is Burkina Faso striker Loukman Tapsoba, currently playing for Real du Faso.
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BlueCo watching Loukman Tapsoba at U17 World Cup
Transfer insider Graeme Bailey has exclusively told The Chelsea Chronicle that the ownership of Chelsea and Strasbourg are already very aware of his talents, despite him being one of the youngest players at the tournament.
He said: “There’s a few good ones. obviously when the tournament starts, I’ll be able to fill you in about whoever anyone’s watching. One player who I know BlueCo are looking at along with City Group is Burkina Faso striker Loukman Tapsoba, who’s actually only 15. He’s meant to be the real deal. He’s one of the youngest at the tournament.”
Tapsoba has already made a strong start to life as an international player. He has scored seven goals in six games for the Under 17s already.
Chelsea are already aware of the youngster after the Blues watched Tapsoba at the U17 African Cup of Nations, a competition where he made his mark on international football.
Chelsea targeting African talents
With a lineage that includes club legends Didier Drogba, John Obi Mikel and Salomon Kalou, it is clear that Chelsea already have a rich history when it comes to African players.
It looks as if the Blues are looking to increase their investment in scouting in the continent, and have already taken steps to improve their footprint.
Chelsea offered a four-week trial to South African Emile Witbooi, however it remains unclear if this ended up with him receiving a full-time deal with the club.
There will be a number of players at the competition on BlueCo’s radar, as they prepare for the usual challenge of beating fellow elite sides to their signatures.