Chelsea receive blow in the chase of €36 million Enzo Fernandez alternative

After bolstering the forward line, Chelsea are targeting a midfielder and a right back. For the midfield, Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez and Brighton’s Moises Caicedo emerged as preferred targets but their high price tags have pushed the Blues to look at other options like Amadou Onana of Everton.

Chelsea were in negotiations for Fernandez but it was clear that Benfica would only take €120 million, which is the release clause for the Argentine. Chelsea even reached out to Brighton to know their stance on Caicedo. The Seagulls do not intend to sell Caicedo in January unless an extraordinary offer of upwards of £75 million comes to the table.

Chelsea and Brighton are significantly apart in valuation but things could change as the Ecuadorian has new agents. Nonetheless, CFC are scouring the market for a midfielder and Everton’s Onana was one that generated interest among the club hierarchy.

The Blues were keen on Anthony Gordon and Onana as Everton navigate through a mess on and off the field. Frank Lampard has been sacked, the club is in shambles and if they fail to survive the relegation battle, there might be a fire sale in the summer. The vulnerable situation at Goodison Park could allow other clubs to take advantage and sign some of Everton’s top players.

Chelsea receives blow in Amadou Onana chase

Onana is certainly an impressive player with a high ceiling of potential. The Belgian was signed in the summer of 2022 for €36 million from LOSC Lille and since arriving at Goodison Park, he has arguably been the best central midfielder for the team.

Compared to Fernandez and Caicedo, Onana is a much cheaper alternative. According to French media outlet Foot Mercato, Chelsea made an offer for the Belgian midfielder but he has rejected the offer.

On the other hand, CFC are also pushing to sign Malo Gusto from Olympique Lyon to add depth to their right back position. The absence of Reece James is hurting the Blues and need a player who can supply energy on the right flank. Gusto ticks those boxes and has been in contact with the London lcub. In fact, the 19 year old has agreed personal terms with Chelsea and the Blues are reading the race for the Frenchman.

Despite signing six players in the winter transfer window, Chelsea are not yet done with their transfer business. Now in the last week of the transfer window, Chelsea will continue to make a push for Gusto and possibly a midfielder.

Should CFC push again in the summer for Amadou Onana?