Despite not having a current manager, Chelsea remains highly active in the transfer market, driven by the co-sporting directors who are steadfast in their plans.
This proactive approach indicates that the absence of a head coach won’t impede their transfer activities.
Mauricio Pochettino, who sought greater control over recruitment during his second summer at Chelsea, left on good terms when his request wasn’t granted.
His successor is also unlikely to have significant influence on how Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital’s funds are utilized.
Nonetheless, Chelsea is gearing up for the forthcoming summer transfer window, with substantial changes expected in the first-team squad.
Football.london has provided the latest updates on Chelsea’s transfer targets.
Michael Olise, a standout performer for Crystal Palace, is one of Chelsea’s primary targets.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that both Chelsea and Manchester United are leading the race to sign Olise, who has a £60 million release clause in his contract.
Olise was a key target for Chelsea last year when he was available for £35 million before signing a new deal.
Despite missing a significant part of the season due to injury, his value has significantly increased.
Olise’s impressive record of scoring 10 goals and providing six assists in just 14 league starts highlights his considerable talent.
Alongside Ebere Eze, Olise played a crucial role in Crystal Palace’s strong finish under manager Oliver Glasner.
Olise’s talent is evident, and while Chelsea may not necessarily need another attacker, his acquisition would undoubtedly bolster their squad.
Despite the presence of promising players like Noni Madueke, Omari Hutchinson, Angelo Gabriel, and Diego Moreira, Olise’s quality makes him an attractive option.
His £60 million release clause is seen as a bargain for a player of his caliber.
Additionally, Chelsea is also showing interest in Olise’s teammate, Eberechi Eze.
Simon Johnson reports that Chelsea scouts have frequently attended Eze’s matches, following a previous approach for the England international.
Eze could potentially be signed for around £45 million.
With his inclusion in England’s provisional squad for Euro 2024, he is expected to have a busy few months ahead.
Eze and Olise form an outstanding duo, arguably one of the most impactful partnerships in the league.
While elite pairs like Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland, or Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka are prominent, Crystal Palace boasts a formidable partnership outside the traditional top six.
Although Eze may not be as indispensable as Olise, he still offers exceptional quality.
At Chelsea, Eze would face strong competition from players like Christopher Nkunku and Carney Chukwuemeka.
If Olise were to join, Chelsea would need to make central adjustments, heightening the competition for that role.
Nevertheless, Eze is a remarkable player who would fill a Premier League-proven gap in Chelsea’s squad.
Any future Chelsea manager would be pleased to have either or both of these talented players added to the team.