If Chelsea are looking to address the midfield position in the summer, it feels as if two names have already emerged at the front of the queue.
Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson have emerged as targets for a number of Premier League clubs, and the Blues have made sure they are on this list.
Enzo Maresca was really keen on signing Anderson in particular, with some reports saying they were willing to part ways with Enzo Fernandez to get it done.
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Wharton meanwhile has been a target since before he even joined Crystal Palace, with the Blue identifying his qualities very early on.
Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest seen during the Premier
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Chelsea have advantage in race for Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson
Both players would clearly be straight into the battle for a starting spot at Stamford Bridge, even with Fernandez and Moises Caicedo present.
According to Mail Plus, Chelsea remain firmly in the race to sign the English duo, and boast excellent relationships with both Palace and Nottingham Forest ahead of the summer transfer window.
This could play a big part in them willing to engage in business for what would likely be close to a record Premier League fee this summer.
Both will be hoping that they are selected by Thomas Tuchel to take part in the 2026 World Cup, an achievement that is only likely to drive up their asking prices.
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Despite Caicedo, Fernandez and Andrey Santos all enjoying very strong seasons at Stamford Bridge, there is currently not another option fit to take any minutes away from them.
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Enzo Fernandez and Vinicius Jr goals graphic
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Dario Essugo is yet to play a minute domestically for the Blues due to fitness woes, while Romeo Lavia’s injury problems have continued to plague him.
While Reece James has offered an option in midfield, it is more likely he will see his long-term future in the right-back role.
This has left Chelsea investing in the position in the summer a necessity to keep pace with their rivals at the top, and there are no better options than Anderson or Wharton for their current setup.
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