Many were surprised that Chelsea didn’t add to the early signing of Liam Delap before the summer transfer window closed ahead of the Club World Cup.
The Blues walked away from signing Mike Maignan, however were pushing late on deadline day to try and bring in Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund.
Chelsea actually met Dortmund’s valuation for Gittens, however not with the structure that the Bundesliga side wanted and they stood firm for now.
The Blues are prepared to return to Gittens when the window opens again, with him emerging as one of their top targets in this transfer window.
Chelsea ‘surprised’ by Borussia Dortmund during Jamie Gittens negotiations
However, it has emerged that the club were convinced they were going to get the deal done prior to the Club World Cup in order to bolster Enzo Maresca’s options in the United States.
According to Waz, Chelsea were surprised Dortmund did not part ways with the winger as they had a desire to recoup funds, as well as the player’s ambition to make the move to Stamford Bridge.
Gittens agreed terms on a contract with Chelsea despite both clubs not being able to conclude their business.
Now, the Blues will have to wait until the window opens next Monday, however they are keeping their options open as they look to fill the void in the squad on the left of attack.
Chelsea’s Jamie Gittens alternatives
The Blues have a number of options on their radar should they feel that Dortmund end up asking for too much money later in the transfer window.
Chelsea have a long-term admiration for Alejandro Garnacho, and could revisit that potential deal following their strong interest in the January window.
There is also the option of Nico Williams, who is wanted by plenty of big sides due to his excellent few seasons for both club and country.
However, the large wage demands of the Spain international are likely to be a stumbling block between both parties, with the club moving away from the days of splashing big money on top names.
