Chelsea have been very focused on acquiring the best rising talents from around Europe since their change in ownership. It has been to the point that a lot of fans have been frustrated that experienced and Premier League-proven talent have been mostly overlooked. The results on the pitch have not been particularly impressive but such a strategy always requires time. And the 24/25 season might have been a glimpse at what the club have been trying to achieve.
Chelsea finished fourth last season and also won the Conference League. One thing that nobody should overlook is the fact that they did so while fielding the youngest team in Premier League history with an average age of 24 years and 36 days.
Interestingly, it does not look like the Blues are trying to change their strategy despite securing a spot in the Champions League. They are continuing to scout and go after youngsters.
As reported by Meczyki, talks are to start next week to finalise the transfer of Bright Ede from Motor Lublin. The 18-year-old will go to Strasbourg first.
Chelsea ready to hold talks to finalise record transfer
The offer from Chelsea is expected to be in the region of €11 million. That is going to be the record fee in Polish football history.
So, it is safe to say that Ede is very highly rated by Chelsea. And to be honest, their record has been pretty hit-and-miss when it comes to identifying talent.
Perhaps this is part of the strategy. Even if someone like Ede does not develop according to plan, it is hard to imagine that his transfer valuation will be a lower than €11 million a few years down the line, if he spends a couple of seasons at Strasbourg and has a mediocre campaign with Chelsea.