Chelsea are now “really looking” at signing a “new name” in the market who was reliably believed to have agreed terms on a switch to Arsenal last year, but the move to their London rivals ultimately fell through.
Chelsea’s transfer plans amid chase for Premier League top five
Enzo Maresca’s sole attention right now centres around Chelsea’s bid to seal a top five Premier League finish this weekend, and the result of this is set to have a profound effect on BlueCo’s plans for next season.
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His agents were at Stamford Bridge in the last few days.
Chelsea play Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Sunday, with Nuno Espirito’s men also firmly in contention for Champions League qualification, so it is quite simply a must-win game for both sides.
|
Race for Champions League qualification with one game remaining |
Points |
|---|---|
|
3. Man City |
68 |
|
4. Newcastle |
66 |
|
5. Chelsea |
66 |
|
6. Aston Villa |
66 |
|
7. Nottingham Forest |
65 |
A draw would gift Aston Villa an opportunity to go above them both, so there is absolutely no room for error, and a place in Europe’s most prestigious competition will be crucial when it comes to determining Chelsea’s transfer plans for this summer.
Competing in the Champions League would not only hand Chelsea a major pull when it comes to attracting the continent’s most high-profile players and their desired targets, but it would also gift the Blues a major financial windfall via revenue to help get those stars through the door.
The west Londoners are looking to bring in a centre-back, winger and striker, while funds generated through Europe and player sales may also allow Chelsea to go for a left-back, second central defender, versatile attacking player and a new goalkeeper (Simon Phillips).
Some doubts have surrounded both Filip Jorgensen and Robert Sanchez throughout 2024/2025, leading to Chelsea reportedly expressing an interest in Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, among others.
A shot-stopper is still believed to be on the agenda of Stamford Bridge officials heading into June 1, and they’ve now got a fresh target under consideration.
Chelsea “really looking” at signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia
According to journalist Simon Phillips, Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia has made his way onto Chelsea’s shortlist, following two excellent seasons at the La Liga side.
“A new name added to Chelsea’s shortlist, and one we are really looking at, is Joan Garcia from Espanyol,” wrote the reporter, via his Substack.
“The 24-year-old has been linked with Newcastle and Arsenal for a summer move, but you can add Chelsea to his list of potential suitors now as well. The rumoured fee of £25m to sign him this summer is appealing to all interested clubs.”
Interestingly, Fabrizio Romano reported last summer that Garcia agreed terms on a move to Arsenal, but his switch to the Emirates eventually collapsed, and it would appear that Chelsea could try to succeed where Mikel Arteta failed.
The 24-year-old is already making quite a name for himself in Spain, with Football Analyst Ben Mattinson calling him an “exciting” keeper with a great physical profile. Garcia would also fit the mould of a good-value, young signing with a potentially high ceiling, and Chelsea are widely known for targeting that kind of player, especially since the takeover.
This one could definitely be one to watch as we fast approach what will be a busy summer for the club.
