Chelsea consider January move for Viktor Gyokeres alternative as Cole Palmer issues Man Utd transfer approval

Chelsea are now preparing for an FA Cup third round clash with Morecambe, though Enzo Maresca will surely rest many of his key stars after a busy festive period. The Blues endured a rocky run of festive fixtures, and when they return to Premier League action, they will be battling to get back into the top four.

Chelsea now have just a one point lead over Newcastle United, and keeping a top four spot has become their primary concern over any title hopes, at least for now. Here round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Stamford Bridge.

Palmer gives Mainoo indication

Cole Palmer appears to have indicated his desire to see Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo snapped up by Chelsea. The Blues are said to be interested, though a summer deal is more likely if there is to be one at all.

Mainoo has rejected United’s recent contract offer, but he is still under terms at Old Trafford for another two-and-a-half years. In the meantime, Palmer, who is good friends with Mainoo, has liked a post on Instagram by ‘TheSecretScout’ that pondered whether a move to Chelsea would be a good one for Mainoo. Palmer and Mainoo grew up close to each other in Manchester, although there is a three-year age gap.

Harder links

Chelsea are being linked with a move for Sporting CP striker Conrad Harder, who has been mooted as a possible alternative to Viktor Gyokeres, his teammate. The Danish striker is only 19 years of age, and The Boot Room say Chelsea are among a number of clubs to be interested in the forward.

Harder has scored three goals in 12 senior league appearances, and he is a three-time Denmark under-21s international. The report claims the Blues could move this month in a bid to beat competition to the deal.

Romano on Bynoe-Gittens

Fabrizio Romano says Chelsea are showing an interest on Borussia Dortmund talent Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, who has been linked with a Premier League move. “My understanding is they feel that in 2025 it’s going to be difficult to keep Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, because the interest is more than strong. Premier League clubs are really following Bynoe-Gittens closely,” Romano said.

“Keep an eye on many clubs. For example, scouts from Liverpool, scouts from Chelsea and more clubs have been in attendance.”