“Madueke would love him” – Chelsea looking at bargain Osimhen alternative from Serie A striker
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Chelsea’s Transfer Moves: Enzo Maresca’s Vision for Stamford Bridge Takes Shape
Chelsea’s Busy Summer Transfer Window
As the 2024 summer transfer window enters its final week, Chelsea has been active, with Enzo Maresca diligently shaping his project at Stamford Bridge. While there has been much discussion about Chelsea’s bloated first-team squad, a closer look reveals that the club has already recouped £123 million through player sales, with more departures expected before the deadline. However, signing a center-forward remains a top priority.
The Hunt for a New Striker
Initially, Chelsea set their sights on Victor Osimhen, but with the Nigerian striker likely heading to the Saudi Pro League due to Chelsea’s unwillingness to meet his £500,000-per-week wage demands, the club has turned its attention elsewhere in Italy.
Chelsea’s Interest in Federico Chiesa
Reports from Caught Offside suggest that Chelsea is considering a move for Juventus star Federico Chiesa, given the diminishing chances of landing Osimhen. Juventus is reportedly asking for only €15 million (£13 million) for the Italian international.
Chiesa is keen to join Barcelona, but the financially troubled La Liga club is struggling to create space on their wage bill, leaving an opening for Chelsea to swoop in with an audacious bid. Chelsea, though facing challenges in the Premier League in recent years, is starting to build something exciting, and Chiesa could be the perfect addition to bolster their vibrant attacking lineup, complementing players like Noni Madueke.
The Potential Partnership: Chiesa and Madueke
Noni Madueke joined Chelsea in January 2023 during a turbulent period but has since found his footing, showing steady improvement. Signed from PSV Eindhoven for £29 million, Madueke reached the pinnacle of his early career with a standout hat trick over the weekend, leading Maresca’s squad to a commanding 6-2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Madueke’s performance was a masterclass, highlighting his technical skills and effectiveness on the right wing. While Nicolas Jackson also contributed with a goal and an assist, his inconsistency and lack of clinical finishing make him an unreliable option to lead the line without competition. Although Chiesa isn’t a traditional striker, he could fill this gap.
Federico Chiesa: A Creative Force
Often described as a “wizard” with the ball by football personality Roger Bennett, Chiesa is primarily known as a right winger. However, last season, after enduring injury-riddled campaigns, he adapted to a more central role, scoring ten goals in 29 starts. His link-up play and magical touch on the ball could bring a new dimension to Chelsea’s attack, creating a dynamic counterbalance to the brilliance of both Madueke and Cole Palmer.
Madueke’s Impressive Stats
Madueke has firmly established himself among the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for goals scored over the past year. He also ranks in the top 3% for progressive carries and the top 11% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes, according to FBref. This data underscores his potential to form a lethal partnership with Chiesa, offering Chelsea a potent attacking duo that could redefine their offensive strategy.
As the transfer window draws to a close, Chelsea’s pursuit of Chiesa could be the final piece in the puzzle that Maresca needs to complete his Stamford Bridge project.
Chiesa’s Playmaking Brilliance
From a statistical perspective, Federico Chiesa’s playmaking abilities are unmistakable. His athleticism and football intelligence allow him to drop deep and orchestrate plays with impressive precision. For a player of his caliber, securing Chiesa for such a modest fee would be a no-brainer for Chelsea.
The Osimhen Pursuit and Chiesa’s Fit
While the pursuit of Victor Osimhen isn’t entirely off the table, it’s becoming increasingly unlikely. Although Chiesa and Osimhen are different types of players, Chiesa’s dynamic skill set could be a game-changer for Chelsea’s attack. His versatility and creativity would blend seamlessly with Chelsea’s fluid frontline, especially with Noni Madueke, who recently showcased his potential with a stunning hat trick. Pairing Chiesa with Madueke could elevate both players’ performances and take Chelsea’s offense to new heights.
By signing Chiesa, Chelsea would be investing in a player whose unique talents could unlock even greater success for the team.