With just days remaining before the January transfer window closes, Chelsea are actively working on reshaping their squad under Enzo Maresca. The club is preparing for several departures as they look to make room for new arrivals, aiming to strengthen their squad for a potential top-four finish.
One of the most significant potential exits is Axel Disasi, who is reportedly close to securing a loan move to Aston Villa until the end of the season. Additionally, João Félix is also linked with a transfer to the West Midlands, as Aston Villa manager Unai Emery looks to reinforce his attacking options. With Jhon Durán seemingly on his way to Saudi Arabia, Félix could be an ideal addition for Villa before Monday’s transfer deadline.
These potential departures could open up financial flexibility for Chelsea, enabling them to pursue key signings in the final days of the window. Among their targets, one name has emerged strongly—Manchester United’s young Argentine winger, Alejandro Garnacho.
Chelsea’s Pursuit of Garnacho
According to reports from French outlet L’Équipe, Chelsea are making a late push to sign Garnacho, who has also attracted interest from Napoli. The Blues view him as a player who could strengthen their left-wing options and add a new attacking threat to Maresca’s squad.
While Manchester United have been reluctant to let him go, the club is reportedly demanding a transfer fee of around £80 million for the 20-year-old. Despite some uncertainty over his role in Erik ten Hag’s evolving system, Garnacho has contributed 13 goal involvements across all competitions this season, making him a valuable asset for any top side.
If Chelsea succeed in their pursuit of Garnacho, he could follow a similar trajectory to Cole Palmer, who has flourished at Stamford Bridge after making the switch from Manchester City.
Could Garnacho Replicate Cole Palmer’s Impact?
Palmer, who joined Chelsea in the summer of 2023 for £40 million, has exceeded expectations since his arrival. Initially, there were doubts about whether he could make an immediate impact, but the 22-year-old has established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe.
His impressive performances have earned him a regular spot in the England national team, and he has amassed an outstanding 60 goal contributions in just 70 appearances for Chelsea. Among his standout moments this season was a remarkable four-goal first-half performance against Brighton, a feat never before achieved in Premier League history.
With Garnacho’s attacking ability and potential, Chelsea may hope he could follow in Palmer’s footsteps, transitioning from Manchester to Stamford Bridge and evolving into a key player for the club.
Comparing Garnacho and Palmer
A look at their respective performances this season shows that while Palmer has been more effective in terms of direct goal contributions, Garnacho excels in dribbling and ball progression, which could provide Chelsea with an added dimension in attack.
Garnacho vs. Palmer – 2024/25 Premier League Stats (Per 90 Minutes)
(Stats via FBref)
While Garnacho’s goal contributions are lower, his dribbling and ability to advance the ball could make him an asset for Chelsea’s attacking play. Football analyst Mark Goldbridge has even described the young Argentine as “frightening” in terms of his potential.
Although the reported £80 million price tag is a significant investment, Chelsea might see it as a risk worth taking, given Garnacho’s long-term potential. If he can mirror Palmer’s development, the Blues could secure another young star capable of making a major impact in the Premier League.
