Chelsea have now submitted an enquiry to sign a “fantastic” star, who recently turned down a move to Tottenham Hotspur, but there could be fierce competition for his signature…
Blues keen to strengthen squad amid Maresca uncertainty
Enzo Maresca claimed the 48 hours prior to the 2-0 victory against Everton earlier this month were his worst since taking over at Stamford Bridge, and Jamie Carragher went on to claim the Italian won’t remain in west London beyond the end of the season.
The Sky Sports pundit said: “I don’t think Maresca’s manager at Chelsea next season. When you come out and speak about your ownership like that and you speak in public, that’s a big problem.
“And it’s not uncertain [who he is speaking about], he’s speaking about the owner and the sporting directors.”
Since then, there has been even more speculation about Maresca’s future, with it being revealed Manchester City are targeting the 45-year-old as a successor to Pep Guardiola.
The prospect of taking over at City, who have won six of the last eight Premier League titles, would surely be enticing. However, should Chelsea show ambition in the transfer market, Maresca may be tempted to stay, and they have now submitted an enquiry over a January deal for AFC Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo.
That is according to an update from Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas on X, who states the Blues are now looking at the “conditions” of a deal, although there could be fierce competition for Semenyo’s signature, with Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool keen.
Tottenham Hotspur were also in the race at one stage, but David Ornstein recently revealed the Ghanaian has now snubbed a move to north London.
Chelsea now aggressively pursuing “powerhouse” defender, could make £52m bid
The Blues could be prepared to make a massive offer.
Semenyo could be “fantastic” signing for Chelsea
On Tuesday morning, reporter Ben Jacobs revealed it is probable the 25-year-old will leave Bournemouth during the upcoming transfer window, but interested parties will have to move quickly, as the £65m release clause expires after ten days.
It is clear to see why the Bournemouth star is attracting such widespread interest, receiving high praise from Spurs boss Thomas Frank, who said: “Semenyo can play wherever he wants to play – he’s a fantastic player. I think he’s been the best individual player for Bournemouth this season.”
Indeed, the Ghana international is versatile, having featured across the front three throughout his career, and he has chipped in with eight goals and three assists in the Premier League this season.
The former Bristol City man has also vastly outperformed his xG over the past year, averaging 0.36 non-penalty goals per 90, having been expected to average 0.24, which indicates he is a clinical finisher.
Liam Delap has struggled to make an impact this season, and Semenyo’s goal record suggests he could be capable of pushing to start at striker for Chelsea.
