Chelsea reignite interest in Spanish bagsman as Fabrizio Romano makes midfielder 'monitoring' claim

Chelsea are now preparing for Friday night’s Premier League clash with Brighton, just days after losing to the Seagulls in the FA Cup. Enzo Maresca’s men are in the thick of an intense top four battle, and they are currently in charge of fourth place.

The Blues face top four rivals Aston Villa after this one, so they will be looking to keep fourth spot in their grasp heading into that one. Here we round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Stamford Bridge.

Samu chase

Chelsea are said to be interested in a move for FC Porto frontman Samu Omorodion. The Blues need more competition at the top end of the pitch, and they are likely to strengthen in that area this summer.

According to The Boot Room, Chelsea have sent scouts to watch Samu, who has scored 18 goals in 27 appearances across all competitions this season. The 20-year-old is already a senior Spain international, making one cap so far, and he is emerging as one of the brightest young striker talent. Chelsea were said to have attempted to sign the forward last summer.

Midfield talent eyed

The Blues have been linked with a move for Sporting CP talent Dario Essugo, who has already made 19 appearances at senior level this season, on loan at Las Palmas, including 14 La Liga outings.

Fabrizio Romano has tweeted: “Chelsea keep monitoring Dario Essugo for the future, after including his name in the January shortlist. 2005 born midfielder considered an interesting talent, now on loan to Las Palmas from Sporting.”

Nkunku slammed

Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku has been criticised after his latest display, with the forward having struggled to convince in recent weeks despite getting off to a hot start this season. Nkunku was heavily linked with a January exit, but Chelsea were said to have demanded £60million for his services.

After his performance against Brighton, ESPN pundit Craig Burley said: “Nkunku up front, I mean what a total waste of money he’s been. And on top of that they are looking a bit fragile at the back.”

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