Last week, reports surfaced that Chelsea were considering a surprising move for Douglas Luiz, with Liam Rosenior looking to add depth to the midfield. Now, it appears they could turn their attention to a Liverpool midfielder instead.
Last week, reports surfaced that Chelsea were considering a surprising move for Douglas Luiz, with Liam Rosenior looking to add depth to the midfield. Now, it appears they could turn their attention to a Liverpool midfielder instead.
Chelsea’s midfield played a key role in their 3-1 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday. That victory marked their fourth win in five games under Rosenior, and it was arguably the most convincing performance yet.
The game was controlled in the middle of the park. Andrey Santos put in one of his best displays yet, racking up 15 defensive actions while tying for the most duels won and ranking second in tackles across both sides.
Moises Caicedo continued his strong form as well, but it was the partnership between him and Santos that really gave Enzo Fernandez licence to operate higher up and influence play more freely. Even so, Chelsea’s options are thin behind that trio.
There is not much depth beyond Caicedo, Santos, and Enzo. Dario Essugo and Romeo Lavia remain sidelined through injury – with Essugo suffering a recent setback – while Reece James filled in at right-back during Sunday’s match.
Chelsea now eyeing Liverpool player after Douglas Luiz links
Liam Rosenior’s decision to use Reece James in defence rather than midfield, combined with ongoing doubts over Lavia and Essugo’s fitness, makes it clear why Chelsea are exploring options.
The path to Douglas Luiz would require negotiating an early end to his Forest loan and then persuading Juventus to agree another short-term move. But another option has now emerged.
Simon Phillips reports on his Substack channel that Curtis Jones could be available before the window closes, and Chelsea are monitoring the situation closely.
Jones, who has entered the final 18 months of his current contract, is down the pecking order at Liverpool when everyone is fit, behind Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.
The England international can play deep in midfield, box-to-box or even further forward. He is also a set-piece specialist and would be a valuable addition. It would be surprising if Liverpool allowed him to leave, though.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Curtis Jones explained
With opportunities ahead of the World Cup likely limited at Anfield unless injuries strike again, Jones needs regular minutes to prove himself useful under Thomas Tuchel. His ability to cover multiple positions adds real value too.
Chelsea appear to have stepped back from Luiz after early reports linked them strongly with a move. Even though Italian media suggested the Brazilian star was eager for the switch – reportedly giving an enthusiastic “yes” – club negotiations have not gone smoothly since then.
The main sticking point comes down to terms: Juventus want any loan deal tied to an obligation to buy this summer, while Chelsea only want an option rather than a commitment upfront.
Since leaving Aston Villa for Turin, Luiz’s career has stalled, making a move necessary to revitalise his CV. A switch to another Premier League side seems probable, but a transfer to Chelsea appears doubtful given the existing competition.
Category: General Sports
