Ever since the transfer window slammed shut, all the talk has been about Chelsea’s pursuit of Alex Scott. But the England star is not the only midfielder on Chelsea’s list, according to recent reports.
Chelsea are said to be leading the race to sign Scott. But Bournemouth are expected to request a fee of £100m after Enzo Fernandez, Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson all moved for figures north of that.
Scott is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, and Charlie Austin believes he would be the perfect signing to replace Fernandez. But Chelsea are not throwing all their eggs into one basket; there are alternatives.
After Felix Nmecha links, Chelsea reconsider Manu Kone signing
Earlier this week, it was reported that Chelsea have been ‘gathering information’ on Felix Nmecha. The Germany international is quickly becoming one of Dortmund’s key players, and a regular for Germany.
It is believed Nmecha would cost in the region of £90m next summer, though other clubs like Man City and Arsenal are keeping tabs. Now, another name is on Chelsea’s radar, and it is a familiar one to fans.
In the summer, Roma’s Manu Kone was strongly linked with Chelsea. Some reports even suggested a bid had been made. Going into the final day of the window, Kone seemed more likely than Lamine Camara.
Now, TuttoMercatoWeb claims Chelsea are back in for Kone. Regarded as France’s best midfielder by Patrick Vieira, it is believed a fee north of the £50m summer bid – as per TMW – is required to get him.
Who else could Chelsea try to sign other than the list of three?
Adam Wharton is a name continually linked with Chelsea. The Blues and Crystal Palace have a superb working relationship, doing business regarding Axel Disasi and Honest Ahanor in the summer.
Chelsea could also go back in for Lamine Camara, with the Senegal star remaining at Monaco after a failed last-ditch attempt to sign him for £47m. But again, Camara is likely to cost a whole lot more.
Ben Jacobs says Monaco rate Camara at around £60m. Chelsea could look to bolster their midfield options as soon as January, given Reece James’ injury, though Jordan Henderson has been superb.
Chelsea are projected to qualify for the Champions League, judging by their current form, and more depth will be required. For now, the Blues can wait until next summer before making a big investment.