EPL: Zaha, Aubameyang among five top players Chelsea must sign this transfer window

With the transfer window set to close, various clubs are taking drastic steps to offload players and sign new players, here’s a look at 5 players Chelsea could sign to bolster Thomas Tuchel’s side as the summer transfer deadline approaches.

Denzel Dumfries

Since his debut for Inter Milan in 2021, Dumfries has made 35 league appearances for the Nerazzurri and has grown into one of the best full-backs in the Serie A.

His performances at Inter have proven that his skill set fits into Tuchel’s 3-at-the-back system.

His ability to make overlapping runs, his blistering pace, his strength, and aerial prowess make him a suitable candidate for a Chelsea move.

According to reports, Inter Milan will only entertain offers within the range of £29m to £33m to facilitate the departure of the Dutch right-back, but by the looks of things, Chelsea may just budge and cough out a transfer fee in that range in a bid to bolster their right-back options for this season.

Wesley Fofana

Following his exemption from Leicester City’s match-day squad against Southampton on August 20, Fofana’s departure from Leicester appears imminent – in fact, as an explanation for his absence, Brendan Rogers reported that the young centre-back wasn’t in the right state of mind owing to bids from Chelsea.

Chelsea has ramped up their interest in the French centre-back and has had two bids rejected by Leicester City. However, Leicester City maintains its stance and will only release Fofana if Chelsea meets their record fee price tag.

While there are apprehensions as to whether the 21-year-old will be able to handle the pressure that comes with the price tag, he remains a top target for the London club.

Fofana is a long-term plan for Chelsea, with Thiago Silva struggling with fitness due to age constraints, and can also slot in as a replacement for Cesar Azpilicueta at right-centre-back.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

With Tuchel sitting at the helm of transfers, a reunion is on the cards for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Thomas Tuchel. The 33-year-old striker was an integral peg in Thomas Tuchel’s Dortmund calvary.

The former Arsenal captain star has a good record playing for Thomas Tuchel, scoring 56 times in 63 appearances under the German gaffer.

Following the departure of Romelu Lukaku on loan and the consequential need for a striker, Chelsea has made inquiries about signing the Gabon star. Discussions between Chelsea and Barcelona have progressed, and the teams will soon reach an agreement to complete the transfer.

Although enjoying a fine form at Barcelona, the arrival of Robert Lewandowski and registration issues might contribute to Aubameyang’s departure from Spain. The deal under discussion is estimated between £15m and £25m.

Frenkie De Jong

Since joining the Spanish giants in July 2019, Frenkie De Jong has become integral to Barcelona’s midfield.

Following the incessant injuries and fitness struggles of Ngolo Kante and Mateo Kovacic, Chelsea has explored the possibility of signing Frenkie De Jong. This is in a bid to strengthen the midfield depth of the London side.

Frenkie De Jong’s midfield proficiency and ability to beat the high press, create goal-scoring chances, and score goals give him an edge on Chelsea’s transfer list. His ability to also play different positions contributes to Chelsea’s interest in the Dutch international.

Chelsea has agreed to meet Manchester United’s offer of a £72m fee to sign De Jong. However, he is owed £17m in deferred wages by Barcelona and will not agree to leave until he gets his pay. Barcelona wants him to stay, but only if he decides to take a significant pay cut.

Wilfried Zaha

Thomas Tuchel has faced numerous issues with his attackers at Chelsea since joining Chelsea in 2021. However, with the transfer window deadline ticking, signing a new attacker is imminent.

Wilfried Zaha has 281 premier league appearances and has recorded 91 goal contributions in nine years for Palace. His dribbling, pace, strength, creativity, and goal-scoring abilities have made him one of the most reliable wingers in the premier league. He has also proven to be a big game player for Crystal palace, scoring twice for Crystal Palace against Aston Villa in their last game.

Following the track record of Chelsea’s recent signing, Chelsea has focused on signing players that are premier league proven: Marc Cucurella and Raheem Sterling. However, Wilfried Zaha, who has been on the London outfit’s radar for a while, might become Chelsea’s latest addition.

Although Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira stated that the Ivorian attacker is not up for sale, they will be unable to resist when the correct bid comes in.