Chelsea’s first transfer window under Xabi Alonso continues to make headlines, with the Blues exploring a mix of high-profile talent and established Premier League players as preparations for the new season come together.
Several names have featured prominently in reports this past week.
Chelsea remain interested in Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar after reports in Italy suggested an open bid had been rejected.
It has also been reported that Wigan youngster Harrison Bettoni is another player being targeted as the club look to strengthen their academy and development pipeline.
The Blues have also been linked with AIK’s Zadok Yohanna and highly regarded German striker Said El Mala as they continue their long-term strategy of targeting other emerging European artists.
The £43m Brighton target now wants him to join Chelsea after talks
The Seagulls now face competition.
However, while youth recruitment remains important for BlueCo, there is also an increasing focus on players who can make an immediate impact in Alonso’s first team.
That brings the spotlight firmly to Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers.
Chelsea have ‘decided’ to sign Morgan Rogers from Man City
According to TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey, Chelsea are ‘determined’ to remain at the forefront of the race for the England international despite stiff competition from both Arsenal and Man City.
Rogers has become one of the premier attacking players in the Premier League following another impressive season under Unai Emery.
Comfortable operating as a winger, attacking midfielder or second striker, the former Middlesbrough star has developed into one of Villa’s key figures and continues to attract plaudits from several top clubs.
Bailey reports that Chelsea believe they have a significant advantage in the pursuit.
That advantage revolves around Joe Shields, one of the club’s most influential recruiting figures. Shields worked in City’s academy system during Rogers’ tenure and it is understood he has a strong relationship with the player and those around him.
According to the report, Chelsea are hoping that connection could prove vital if Rogers is available this summer.
Competition is fierce though.
City is said to be ‘pushing hard’ for the player.
Rogers spent several years at City’s academy before leaving to pursue higher-profile opportunities, and the Premier League giants have continued to monitor his progress closely.
A return to the Etihad Stadium would represent a full circle in his career, and City are believed to be major contenders if Aston Villa decide to listen to an offer.
Arsenal are also firmly in the picture.
Recent reports have linked the Premier League champions with Rodgers as Mikel Arteta looks for more attacking quality.
Arsenal’s ability to mount title challenges and Champions League football naturally strengthens their position, while the flexibility provided by Rogers can match the many tactical demands Arteta places on his attacking players.
Despite the growing interest, Aston Villa are not under pressure to sell the £120,000-a-week star.
The Midlands club are said to value Rogers at around £100 million, a figure that reflects his current value and long-term potential.
Villa have ambitious plans following their Europa League triumph and would rather build on players of Rogers’ caliber than lose them.
That means any deal may require a large offer.
For Chelsea, the pursuit shows little change in emphasis. While the club continues to invest heavily in young prospects, Rogers represents a player who is already proven at Premier League level and is entering the peak development years of his career.
Whether that proves enough remains to be seen.
Chelsea battle Newcastle to sign player, Magpies make ‘highest’ offer
West Londoners have entered the race.
