Chelsea have reportedly ramped up their efforts to sign Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens in time for the Club World Cup. A £50million switch for the Englishman would have consequences for both Manchester United and Arsenal as the heavyweight Premier League trio gear up for the 2025/26 season.
United are looking to cash in on Alejandro Garnacho this summer, and Chelsea explored a move for the Argentina international in January. But swooping for Gittens is likely to see the Blues withdraw from the race to sign Garnacho and turn their attention to bolstering other areas of Enzo Maresca's squad.
The move could also affect United in terms of Jadon Sancho's future. Sancho spent last season on loan at Stamford Bridge, and while Chelsea have an obligation to sign him permanently for £25million, they could also send him back to Old Trafford by paying a £5m penalty fee.
Blues chiefs are believed to have held discussions with Sancho over a permanent contract, but with Gittens potentially on the scene, they would have less incentive to fork out for the winger's demands.
The ramifications of Gittens' prospective move to Chelsea are more positive from an Arsenal point of view. The Gunners and their London rivals have both been credited with interest in Athletic Club wide man Nico Williams.
But with Chelsea now placing 'full focus' on their move for Gittens, the pathway has cleared for Arsenal to get their hands on a player who has a long-standing admirer in Mikel Arteta.
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