Chelsea Transfer News Roundup: Blues eyeing AC Milan ace; club end Michael Olise chase, and more - June 22, 2024
Chelsea are hoping that Enzo Maresca's appointment will transform their fortunes next campaign. The Italian manager took over from Mauricio Pochettino earlier this month.
Meanwhile, the Blues are interested in AC Milan left-back Theo Hernandez. Elsewhere, the London giants have ended their pursuit of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise.
On that note, here's a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on June 22, 2024:
Chelsea eyeing Theo Hernandez
Chelsea have set their sights on Theo Hernandez, according to HITC. The French left-back has been in fine form recently for AC Milan, turning heads at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are in the market for a new left-back this summer. They have decided to allow Ian Maatsen to leave this year, with the Dutchman close to a move to Aston Villa. Meanwhile, Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell don't inspire confidence following a mixed campaign.
Hernandez has been identified as the ideal man to solve the issue. The 26-year-old registered five goals and 11 assists in 46 games across competitions in the 2023-24 campaign. He remains a key player for the Rossoneri, so prising him away would be tough.
The Blues may have to offer a substantial amount of money to convince the Serie A side to let him go. Hernandez is under contract at San Siro till 2026, so the club are under no pressure to offload him. However, the player could be enticed by the prospect of playing in the Premier League.
Blues end Michael Olise chase
Chelsea have pulled the plug on their pursuit of Michael Olise, according to The Athletic. The report also adds that the Frenchman has decided to join Bayern Munich this summer.
The Blues were hot on the heels of the 22-year-old recently. Olise had caught the imagination of clubs across the continent after a fine showing with Crystal Palace in the 2023-24 campaign.
The Frenchman managed 10 goals and six assists in 19 games across competitions, all in the Premier League, despite missing the first half of the season due to injuries. Enzo Maresca had identified Olise as a priority target for this year, and the London giants were in talks to secure his services.
However, they have now decided that the transfer won't be possible due to the finances involved in the deal. Olise wanted to be the highest player at Stamford Bridge, but it was not a possibility, as the club are looking to reduce their wage bill.
The Bavarians have taken advantage of the situation and look set to secure the 22-year-old's services.
Chelsea want Maximilian Beier
Chelsea are interested in Maximilian Beier, according to journalist Florian Plettenberg. The Blues are looking to add more firepower to their attack before the start of the new campaign, following an underwhelming run in front of the goal in the 2023-24 season.
The likes of Noni Madueke and Mykhaylo Mudryk failed to impress, while Raheem Sterling remains liked with an exit. Beier has popped up on Enzo Maresca's radar following an impressive campaign with Hoffenheim.
The 21-year-old scored 16 goals and set up three in 35 games across competitions. The Premier League giants are pleased with his efforts and want him at the club this year.
The German is likely to be available for €30 million, which would also suit Chelsea's finances. However, there are multiple clubs on his heels at the moment, and the Blues are not the favourites in the race.