No matter where Chelsea finish in the Premier League this season, they are set to be busy at the end of the campaign when it comes to bringing in new players.
They will first need to deal with the sale of a number of individuals. The likes of Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku are deemed to have no future at Stamford Bridge.
The attack is an area that is likely to be prioritised, with talk of a new striker to displace Nicolas Jackson from the starting side refusing to go away.
It is not just number nines who they are looking at though, with them open to signing those who can help contribute goals and assists in attacking areas.
One player who they have been previously linked to who would fit this bill is Rayan Cherki. The 21-year-old has 12 goals and 20 assists across all competitions for Lyon.
Former Chelsea target Rayan Cherki asks to leave Lyon
Despite impressing greatly and helping his side overtake BlueCo’s Strasbourg on the final day of the season, the Frenchman is preparing to say goodbye to his club at the end of the season.
Fabrizio Romano has stated that the player has informed those in the mixed zone after their final game of the season of his intention to leave.
He said: “Rayan Cherki has decided to LEAVE Olympique Lyon this summer, the plan has been announced by the player in mixed zone tonight. “Thanks to OL, the coach, the staff, the president, my teammates and all people at the club.”
Given the fact that they have previous interest in Cherki, there is a real opportunity for the Blues to capitalise on an opportunity to bring in a player who one of their club legends is a big fan of.
Eden Hazard recently awarded Cherki the best dribbler award for the 24/25 season, with Tribuna stating that the Belgian praised him in the process.
Why Chelsea didn’t sign Rayan Cherki previously
Despite being strongly linked to the addition of Cherki back in 2023, the Blues elected not to take the risk on another teenager at the time.
It was reported that they didn’t sign Cherki due to bringing in Cole Palmer, a player who has established himself as one of the best in the Premier League.
With him now available to whoever meets his very achievable release clause, the Blues have the chance to bring in one of the most talented young attackers in world football this summer.
