Chelsea might have finished fourth in the Premier League last season, but it feels like there are still a lot of positions where this team can improve. And they will have to, if they want to make a push for the title and compete at the Champions League level anytime soon. That means not only bringing in fresh faces but also saying goodbye to some familiar ones.
Since the arrival of Enzo Maresca as manager, Noni Madueke has been a consistent starter for Chelsea. He was handed 27 starts in the Premier League last season, and also showed his versatility, playing in a number positions on both flanks.
In Chelsea's Club World Cup opener, he started on the left wing, providing an assist as well. The Blues continue to search for a right-footed winger who can play there after saying goodbye to Jadon Sancho.
Madueke's output improved as well. He scored 11 goals and provided 5 assists across all competitions last season while playing 2513 minutes of football. Yet, it looks like there is uncertainty around his future at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea ready to listen to offers for regular starter
As reported by The Guardian, Chelsea will listen to suitable offers for Madueke. The impending arrival of Estevao might have something to do with that.
There are question marks about whether Estevao is ready to come in and hold on to a starting spot at a club the size of Chelsea though. So, it might be smart to keep Madueke around until the Brazilian wonderkid finds his feet in European football.
There is a ton to like about Madueke's game and he seems like someone eager to improve as well. Now, he just needs to take his output to the next level and then, Chelsea could have quite the player on their hands. This might not be the right time to give up on him.