Imagine him & Dewsbury-Hall: Chelsea hold talks to sign £80m Premier League star

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Chelsea’s Busy Transfer Window: Aiming for Champions League Qualification

Chelsea are actively pursuing improvements to their squad this summer, preparing for a strong push to qualify for the Champions League under new manager Enzo Maresca in his debut Premier League season.

Key Signings and Familiar Faces

Among their recent acquisitions is Leicester City midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Having worked with Maresca last season at Leicester, Dewsbury-Hall’s familiarity with the new manager’s style should help Chelsea hit the ground running. This addition is aimed at providing stability and experience, crucial as Maresca looks to implement his strategies effectively.

Another noteworthy signing is Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham. Acquired on a free transfer, Adarabioyo strengthens Chelsea’s defensive options, addressing their issues from last season, where they conceded 63 goals—the eighth worst in the league.

Transfer Speculations and Future Targets

Chelsea’s transfer activities are far from over. Journalist Simon Phillips has reported that Chelsea have spoken to Newcastle regarding Anthony Gordon. Previously linked with Chelsea before his move from Everton to Newcastle, Gordon’s current fee would likely be double the £40 million transfer cost Newcastle paid.

Chelsea are also exploring options for a winger, a striker, and a left-footed defender. This aligns with Phillips’ report that Chelsea inquired about both Gordon and Alexander Isak. The duo combined for 44 goals and assists in the Premier League last season, highlighting their potential to significantly boost Chelsea’s attack.

Anthony Gordon’s Rise and Potential Impact

Gordon broke into the Everton squad during the 2019/20 season, with his first senior goal contribution being an assist against Leicester. After a loan spell at Preston North End in the 2020/21 season, he secured his spot in Everton’s team in the 2021/22 season, making 35 Premier League appearances, scoring four goals, and providing two assists.

His impressive performances continued into the 2022/23 season, showcasing his versatility by playing various positions including left wing, right wing, and centre-forward. This led Newcastle to sign him, and in his first full season, he scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists, securing his place on the left wing.

Given his rapid development, it’s no surprise that Gordon made the England squad for Euro 2024. His inclusion would significantly enhance Chelsea’s attacking options, especially when compared to current wingers like Mykhaylo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling.

Comparing Performance Metrics

Gordon’s output last season, with 10 goals and 11 assists, outshines Mudryk’s five goals and two assists, and Sterling’s eight goals and four assists. Gordon also produced more shot-creating actions per 90 minutes, averaging 4.45 compared to Mudryk’s 3.43 and Sterling’s 3.86.

While Mudryk and Sterling excel in their ability to carry the ball and beat defenders one-on-one, Gordon’s overall contributions in creating scoring opportunities are notable. Mudryk and Sterling averaged more progressive carries per 90 minutes than Gordon, but this is where Dewsbury-Hall’s strengths come into play.

The Dewsbury-Hall and Gordon Combination

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Dewsbury-Hall excels in carrying metrics, averaging 3.91 progressive carries per 90 minutes, ranking him in the top 2% of midfielders. He also completes 1.46 successful take-ons per 90 minutes, ranking in the top 8% among midfielders. His ability to progress the ball from deeper areas can complement Gordon’s forward play.

Maresca’s style often sees wingers as the most advanced players, with number eights like Dewsbury-Hall receiving the ball in central and wide areas. This dynamic allows Dewsbury-Hall to facilitate attacks while Gordon focuses on creating chances and scoring opportunities in the final third.

A Promising Partnership

The potential partnership between Gordon and Dewsbury-Hall could be highly effective. Gordon’s speed and ability to exploit spaces behind defenders, combined with Dewsbury-Hall’s progressive play, could create numerous scoring opportunities for Chelsea. This combination would enhance Chelsea’s offensive capabilities and help them pose a significant threat to opposition defenses.

In summary, Chelsea’s summer transfer activities, including the acquisition of Dewsbury-Hall and the potential signing of Gordon, indicate a strategic approach to strengthening the squad. These moves are aimed at achieving a successful season under Maresca, with a clear focus on securing Champions League qualification.