Transfer business has picked up pace at Chelsea over the past few days. They are on the verge of signing both Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens, with both deals pretty much over the line and only a matter of time. But the Blues do not intend to stop there and continue to be linked with other players to strengthen their forward line further.
Of course, a large reason behind that is the fact that there could be exits on the way. Christopher Nkunku is almost certain to leave this summer despite his recent heroics at the Club World Cup. Arsenal are trying to sign Noni Madueke. And Nicolas Jackson has been linked with a move away as well, especially after the club have signed Liam Delap and Pedro in the same window.
On the other hand, there is some bad news for Chelsea. It appears that a Premier League rival have taken a step closer to signing one of their transfer targets.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Nottingham Forest have agreed deal with Olympique Lyon for Malick Fofana. The player is waiting for Champions League clubs, with Chelsea still keen. Bayern Munich and Napoli are still interested.
Premier League rivals agree deal for Chelsea target
Of course, Chelsea are set to sign Gittens. But it would not come as a surprise if they wanted another winger. With Jadon Sancho no longer at the club and the future of Mykhailo Mudryk still uncertain, the Blues might need to bring in more reinforcements there.
Fofana enjoyed a standout campaign with Lyon. So, he was always expected to draw interest this summer. And that move feels almost inevitable now, as the French club face relegation.
It is worth pointing out that Fofana is not the only winger Chelsea are still being linked with. There has been some talk regarding a potential swap deal involving Alejandro Garnacho and Nkunku.