Chelsea tried strengthening their squad last summer. However, judging by their performances so far this season, there hasn’t been any visible improvement. On the contrary, the Blues find themselves in a difficult position and might struggle to qualify for the Champions League.
As a result, another busy summer transfer window might be on the cards for Chelsea. The Blues’ transfer rumour mill certainly seems to suggest so.
It was earlier reported that the club may have been handed a blow in their pursuit of FC Koln winger Said El Mala, with Brighton & Hove Albion leading the race. However, it looks like Chelsea haven’t been deterred.
According to Bild, FC Koln want €50 million to part ways with El Mala. Brighton are willing to pay €35 million plus €5 million in bonuses. Chelsea are also interested in him but have not submitted an official offer yet.
Chelsea’s struggles in finding a reliable left winger
Chelsea brought in two new left wingers in the summer. Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho. Unfortunately, neither of them has made a strong enough case to be a regular in the position. In fact, the latter is already being linked with an exit. Lately, Pedro Neto, who prefers to play on the right, has been trusted as the option to operate on the opposite flank.
As a result, it’s not surprising that the Blues are already considering adding another winger to sort this issue. El Mala has scored 10 goals and provided four assists in 28 matches in the Bundesliga. This is despite him starting just half of those games.
There’s little doubt about the talent the 19-year-old youngster possesses. But is El Mala ready to take on the responsibility of first-team football at Chelsea? Or is he better suited as a long-term project?
Chelsea have work to do this summer
Chelsea have the youngest squad in the Premier League. The management have focused heavily on signing youngsters and giving them long-term contracts.
This approach has clearly backfired more than once for the Blues, and recent results reflect that. What the club needs right now are experienced players, not another young signing.
So, although El Mala is a bright talent, he might not be what the Blues need right now. Chelsea should look elsewhere and bring in someone who has already proven himself in big competitions.
All things considered, the transfer window is still a few months away, and these are just speculations at this point. Ultimately, the Blues’ board is better suited to make the final call, and it’s up to them now.
