Sources say Chelsea have “opened talks” with £68m attacker: we don’t believe it | OneFootball

While the focus at Chelsea right now is on sales, there’s still the scope for more additions.

The majority of those to be sold are those who were on loan last season, and didn’t play a significant role in the first team. Losing them won’t damage us. But selling the likes of Noni Madueke (who is on the verge of a move to Arsenal), Nicolas Jackson (not up for sale but now seemingly third choice striker and available at the right price) or Christopher Nkunku (also not being shopped around but certainly available) would mean losing a first team player from last season.

Chelsea consider their squad options

Chelsea train at the Club World Cup. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Even if one of those three were to go, it’s not clear whether a replacement would 100% come in. The additions of Jamie Gittens, Estevao Willian, Liam Delap and Joao Pedro have added tons of quality to the front line, as has the emergence of Tyrique George from the academy.

Eberechi Eze is a target we’re hearing more and more about, with TeamTalk today claiming that the Blues have “opened talks” with Crystal Palace about signing him. The England winger is a target for a few top clubs, with Tottenham also linked. After years at Crystal Palace, he looks keen to step up to the Champions League.

What makes Eze move unlikely despite rumours of talks

Eze is 27 years old, and while Chelsea are willing to show some flexibility in their youth focus, a player of that age at the peak of their value (he has a £68m release clause) just goes against everything that’s being built. Despite the rumours, we’re sceptical.

If Madueke and Jackson AND Nkunku ALL go, an attacking signing looks certain. But for that sort of money, we would expect a younger player to come in.