It will be very interesting to see how Chelsea go about their business in the summer transfer window. At least some substantial signings are expected to be made. Players who could come in and immediately establish themselves as starters. On the other hand, Xabi Alonso will also have to make the most out of the options available to him.
It is worth pointing out that Chelsea already have some signings lined up, decisions that were made before Alonso was even in the picture. The likes of Valentin Barco, Emmanuel Emegha, Geovany Quenda, Dastan Satpaev and a few more are expected to arrive.
Some might have a bright future under Alonso. Others might find it tough. Emegha might fall in the latter category, with Nicolas Jackson also returning. Would he be open to being the third or fourth choice striker? More importantly, do Chelsea even need him?
There already seems to be interest in the striker. According to Aaron Ramiro, Crystal Palace have made initial enquiries over a potential deal for Emegha.
Could striker leave Chelsea before ever playing for the club?
It remains to be seen whether the enquiry is for a permanent deal or a loan. But Chelsea letting Emegha go would not be out of the realm of possibility.
At this moment, it is hard to find a place for him on this team. Joao Pedro is going to be the first choice easily. Jackson is expected to have a role as well, if he does end up staying. Liam Delap could leave, but if he does not, he does have Premier League experience over Emegha.
The issue with Emegha is that he has not developed since the decision was made to sign him. He spent most of the 25/26 campaign out injured.
Yes, the Dutchman had a decent scoring record in Ligue 1. But that does not mean it would convert to the Premier League.
From what I have seen of Emegha, he seems like a raw talent. His game needs to be a lot more polished if he wants to be a starter for Chelsea. The issue is, he might not get the playing opportunities at Stamford Bridge to help smooth the edges.
Emegha signing from Strasbourg was a controversial one
Of course, one cannot overlook the fact that Emegha is arriving from Strasbourg. In fact, he was their captain.
It is a move that did not go down well with their supporters. Strasbourg are under the BlueCo umbrella. And they have repeatedly seen Chelsea go in and sign their best performers.
In January, Chelsea went a step further and appointed Liam Rosenior from Strasbourg. But he was sacked three months into a six-and-a-half-year contract. That move did not serve anybody well, but the French club’s fans are justified in feeling hard done by.
As a result, Emegha was not a popular figure at Strasbourg last season despite being the club captain. Now, could his Chelsea career be over before it ever gets off the ground?
