As we enter the final week of the summer transfer window 2024, Chelsea is busy as the project under Enzo Maresca gradually takes shape.
The first-team squad at Stamford Bridge has been a hot topic of debate in recent months. Chelsea has already raised £123 million from player sales, with more departures expected before the deadline.
Securing a central striker remains a top priority, but with Victor Osimhen seemingly set to move to the Saudi Pro League after Chelsea refused to meet his £500,000-per-week wage demands, the focus has shifted to another Serie A target. Caught Offside reports that Chelsea is considering signing Federico Chiesa from Juventus due to the slim chances of acquiring Osimhen. The Old Lady is asking for just €15 million.
The Italian player is hoping to sign with Barcelona, but the La Liga club is struggling financially and needs to free up wage space, presenting Chelsea with a bold opportunity. Chiesa would be an excellent addition, bolstering the dynamic attack and complementing players like Noni Madueke.
Madueke joined Chelsea during a challenging period but has gradually established himself since moving from PSV Eindhoven for £29 million in January 2023. He recently hit a career high with an impressive hat-trick, helping Chelsea secure a 6-2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Meanwhile, Nicolas Jackson has scored and assisted, but he lacks the consistency or sharpness to lead the attack with limited competition. Therefore, Chiesa, although not a traditional striker, could be a fitting option. Praised as a “wizard” with the ball by legend Roger Bennett, Chiesa is usually seen as a right winger but was shifted to a central role last season.
He scored ten goals in 29 starts and impressed with his link-up play and dribbling ability. His creativity could be a special addition to Chelsea’s attack, balancing with playmaker Palmer and Madueke. Chiesa’s intelligence could help him drop deeper and stretch defenses.
Chiesa’s versatility and agility could help Maresca’s Chelsea play more flexibly. He should be signed, especially at the affordable price of €15 million. Securing a deal for Osimhen is not impossible but would be costly for The Blues.
Chiesa is not as expensive as the Nigerian forward, and his versatility could work wonders for Chelsea’s dynamic attack. Notably, Madueke could reach new heights if the former Fiorentina star joins the team.