Chelsea made their debut at the Club World Cup on Monday after finishing the season in 4th place in the Premier League and with the UEFA Conference League trophy. However, the Blues are already preparing for the next European season by acting behind the scenes for the transfer window by investing in another potential reinforcement.
The latest reports indicate that Chelsea have expressed an interest in signing Malick Fofana, the 20-year-old Belgian who is among several options being considered to reinforce Enzo Maresca's squad. Talks between the parties are ongoing, but there is a certain optimism that we will see a positive outcome in the next few days.
Fofana rose to prominence in European soccer when he excelled for Gent and was bought by Lyon in January 2024. He has an active contract with John Textor's club until 2028, but the Blues want to close the deal quickly in order to become even more competitive with a view to returning to the Premier League title race.
If the deal goes through, Chelsea will have a Belgian striker who scored 11 goals and contributed six assists throughout the season for the Ligue 1 side. Fofana was responsible for six goals during Lyon's campaign in the last UEFA Europa League, which lasted until the quarter-finals. His great performances earned him an unprecedented call-up to the Belgium national team in October 2024, with the opportunity to play a match.
Chelsea looking for new striker after Jamie Gittens' refusal
Chelsea's search for a new winger comes after they decided not to make Jadon Sanho's loan permanent, as he failed to find a good rhythm of intensity and ended up returning to Manchester United. There was also an attempt to sign Jamie Gittens before the Club World Cup, but no deal was done. At least Enzzo Maresca has already secured the arrival of Ipswich Town standout Liam Delap.