Chelsea are reportedly making Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Bynoe-Gittens their top transfer target this summer as Enzo Maresca looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new season. The Blues are also keeping tabs on West Ham's Mohammed Kudus and Brighton's João Pedro, with the club aiming to add depth and versatility to their squad.
Chelsea's pursuit of Gittens is gaining momentum, with reports suggesting that the player has already agreed to personal terms with the club and is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. However, the two clubs are yet to agree on a transfer fee, with Dortmund holding out for a figure closer to £50 million after rejecting an initial bid of £42 million from Chelsea. Chelsea see the left-wing position as a priority. With Mykhailo Mudryk suspended and Jadon Sancho's loan spell having ended, the only natural option for Enzo Maresca currently is teenager Tyrique George. Maresca has publicly stated the need to strengthen the left-sided attack.
Gittens is a highly-rated English winger who had a breakout year in the Bundesliga, impressing with his pace, dribbling skills, and ability to create chances. Chelsea believe he has the potential to become a key player for the club in the coming years. However, Gittens has been included in Dortmund's squad for the FIFA Club World Cup. If he were to sign for Chelsea before the competition concluded, he would be ineligible to play for his new club in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have also been linked with a move for West Ham forward Mohammed Kudus. Reports suggest that West Ham have offered Chelsea a swap deal involving goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. Kudus, who joined West Ham from Ajax, is a versatile attacking player who can operate in multiple positions, including as an attacking midfielder or as a winger. However, Chelsea are also reportedly interested in AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, potentially making Sanchez expendable. Kudus has a reported release clause of £85 million, valid for the first ten days of July, but it is thought that Chelsea will not approach this high asking price.
Another attacking player on Chelsea's radar is Brighton's João Pedro. The Brazilian forward is also attracting interest from Newcastle United, but reports indicate that the player would prefer a move to a London club. Brighton are said to be demanding around £70 million for the 23-year-old. Chelsea's good relationship with Brighton, having signed Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez and Moises Caicedo from them in recent years, could give them an advantage in the race for Pedro's signature. Pedro is a versatile forward who can play as a central striker or across any of the attacking midfield positions.
Chelsea have already completed the signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town and are looking to add more forwards to their squad as they prepare for the new season and their return to the Champions League.
