Overview
- Chelsea view Crystal Palace’s 21-year-old Adam Wharton as a long-term priority but a January move is seen as unrealistic given Palace’s insistence on no mid-season sale and talk of a nine-figure fee.
- With Wharton unlikely in winter, Chelsea have moved on Nico Paz as the immediate option and have made enquiries to Como and the player’s representatives.
- Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo has been considered, yet a loan from United to a direct Premier League rival is regarded as doubtful.
- Ongoing injury issues for Romeo Lavia have accelerated Chelsea’s midfield plans, with speculation suggesting a potential 2026 sale could be weighed to reshape the unit.
- A Spanish report claims Chelsea are currently leading the race for Wharton, although any transfer is expected to be revisited in the summer window.