Chelsea reignites pursuit of a highly-rated midfielder, seeking reinforcements to bolster their squad's depth and consistency.
Chelsea boasts a talented starting lineup, but their bench lacks depth. Manager Enzo Maresca has struggled when key players are injured or suspended.
The Blues' midfield is one area they need to reinforce as soon as possible if they are to keep competing in multiple tournaments. The number of games a Premier League side plays in various tournaments, alongside playing for their national teams, seems to be increasing every year, a trend that has been evident in Maresca's squad this season.
Cole Palmer and Captain Reece James haven't been able to perform at their best due to health issues, resulting in mixed results this season. They sit 10 points behind league leaders Arsenal.
As we approach the winter transfer window, Chelsea is likely to bring in midfield reinforcements. They added attacking options in the summer: Joao Pedro, Alejandro Garnacho, Liam Delap, and William Estevao.
Chelsea focuses on James McAtee
James McAtee is another name making rounds in the Blues' circle since last season's January window. Unfortunately, their efforts didn't materialise then, as McAtee moved to Nottingham Forest last summer.
The 23-year-old has failed to get into Forest's starting lineup and has appeared only six times this season with his current club. However, the Blues see him as a highly talented midfielder who can make an impact at Stamford Bridge.
Simon Phillips reported on his Substack (via Chelsea Chronicle) that Chelsea have begun talks with the midfielder. He stated, "SPTC Sources understand Chelsea have held fresh internal conversations around interest and a potential move for James McAtee of Nottingham Forest."
"Chelsea held a previous strong interest in the midfielder when he was at Manchester City right before he made his move to Forest."
"Phillips also added, "McAtee hasn’t been playing as much as he would like to be playing at Forest, and there is a potential opportunity there."
Chelsea has always admired the 23-year-old, which is obviously driven by Joe Shields having previously worked with McAtee."
Given McAtee's lack of game time, the Blues would likely hold the upper hand in negotiations with Forest, as the other big Premier League sides have yet to show interest in the midfielder.
Chelsea's management is keeping tabs on several midfielders, such as Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Manchester United outcast Kobbie Mainoo.