Chelsea's main focus will be to finish the season as strongly as possible but there is still work being done in the background ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Blues are out of the Champions League after suffering an 8-2 on aggregate defeat to holders PSG earlier this week and sit three points off fourth in the Premier League with just eight games to go.
An upcoming FA Cup quarter-final tie against League One side Port Vale offers a glimmer of hope the side can continue their quest for silverware but overall expectations are at their lowest.
Irrespective of how Chelsea finish the campaign, the Chelsea ownership, led by US billionaire Todd Boehly, are believed to be willing to spend big again as BlueCo remain determined to oversee an era of success.
Chelsea in mix to sign FC Koln winger Said El Mala
Even though Enzo Fernandez recently admitted he could leave Chelsea in the summer, outgoings may not be the only thing on the club's agenda.
According to leading football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, who posted a clip on his YouTube channel on Thursday, the Blues are one of several clubs actively pursuing a move for FC Koln winger Said El Mala.
"It's true what has been reported in Germany by local newspapers.
Said El Mala, this talent born in 2006, 19-year-old turning 20 in August, is a player who is being followed by Chelsea. He’s on Chelsea’s short list."
El Mala joined FC Koln from FC Viktoria Koln last summer and has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign. The 19-year-old has already directly contributed to 13 Bundesliga goals this season, including netting nine himself.
The young winger's deal with FC Koln, which is reportedly worth £13,000-per week, expires in 2030.
Chelsea not the only club fighting for El Mala's signature
While moving to Stamford Bridge would be an exciting prospect for El Mala, Chelsea aren't the only club trying to convince him to leave Cologne.
It has been reported by Romano that multiple Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United, have also registered an interest in the Germany under-21 international.
"There are at least three, four clubs trying to enter the race for Said. He’s a big talent, German player, super appreciated around Europe.
It’s true that also Newcastle made some calls. English clubs and not only are interested in this boy who is a huge talent, very young, but with big potential. And so several clubs involved.
This is going to be, I think, a big fight for Said El Mala in the upcoming weeks with talks and discussions already starting."
Despite El Mala being valued at less than £40 million, the level of interest being shown in him will almost certainly lead to FC Koln receiving a much higher fee should they allow their number 13 to move on.