Chelsea face a hectic Christmas fixture list, and the pace behind the scenes isn’t slowing down either as the January window draws near.
Most of the chatter around Stamford Bridge lately has focused on younger players.
Mohamed Zongo, just 16, has joined Strasbourg, with plans for him to develop there before eventually making his way to West London. Meanwhile, BlueCo continue to monitor several promising talents in South America.
But their transfer interest is not restricted to youth players. A new report from Switzerland claims Chelsea are set to join Man United in the race for one of the Premier League’s rising stars.
Noah Sadiki draws interest from Chelsea and Man United
Sunderland have been one of the stories of the season, surprising many with their strong start following promotion.
Granit Xhaka’s arrival has brought stability to their midfield, but it’s his partner alongside him who has quietly become just as important.
Noah Sadiki, who joined from the Belgian league in the summer, has made an immediate impact at just 20 years old.
His performance against Chelsea in October didn’t go unnoticed, and reports soon followed linking him with a move to Stamford Bridge.
As Sky Sports’ Sacha Tavolieri reports: “Chelsea acted immediately after the Black Cats’ last match against the Blues on October 25th, contacting Sunderland to inquire about the asking price for the young talent.
“This direct approach is a sign of the very serious interest from Stamford Bridge.”
Chelsea aren’t alone in their pursuit though. Manchester United have also shown interest for some time now.
Tavolieri adds: “Manchester United have long had Sadiki in their sights: The Red Devils had already approached the player’s representatives at the start of this season proof that Manchester United are closely monitoring.”
Decisions await as Chelsea weigh midfield additions
Sadiki has been one of the more impressive new faces this season, and it’s easy to see why plenty of clubs would be interested in him.
Chelsea have been linked with several Premier League midfielders, showing a clear intention to strengthen that area.
But someone will need to move on. Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo aren’t going anywhere, and captain Reece James is locked into a midfield role as well.
It seems likely that either Andrey Santos or Romeo Lavia would have to make room if another top-tier midfielder were to join.
The club may already have someone in mind, but finding a taker for the injury-hit Lavia could be a challenge.
Santos hasn’t had much of a chance to prove himself yet. But if another high-profile signing like Sadiki, Adam Wharton or Elliot Anderson arrives, it could spell the end of his time at the club, especially given how few minutes he’s played so far.
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