It was reported last week that Chelsea had entered talks with one Premier League player in order to try and convince him to make the move to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues approached Eberechi Eze over a potential switch across London this summer, offering the prospect of playing Champions League football next season.

Chelsea fans were keen on signing Eze, perhaps being scarred by missing out on former Crystal Palace man Michael Olise, who is now one of the best attackers in world football.

The Blues have already brought in Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap and Joao Pedro to play in attack, with Estevao Willian’s deal being finalised too. However, they are being strongly linked to another new addition before the transfer window closes.

Eberechi Eze to Chelsea now unlikely after player’s salary demands

It looks as if this is not going to be Eze though. Journalist Simon Phillips has claimed that Chelsea were left shocked at Eze’s wage demands when discussing a potential deal, and are now set to move on to other targets.

He said on his Substack: “Last week, we reported the exclusive story that Chelsea had approached the agents of Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace to see whether a move was feasible on the players side and explore any terms of the deal.

“Chelsea spoke with Eze’s agents but he wants ‘quite a big wage’ package which surprised Chelsea and put them off a bit. Also, on the club side, Chelsea have heard that his release clause needs to be paid in one package and the club do not see any real value in doing that for a player in his late 20s.

“They do really appreciate the quality of the player though, hence why they made the approach to find out the fundamentals. The interest remains, but any Chelsea move for Eze is now looking unlikely.”

Eze is believed to have a release clause for £67.5m in his contract, and Chelsea’s usual stance of not spending big money on players over the age of 25 will likely put this on the back burner for now.

Chelsea turn transfer attention to new attacker

After being knocked back in their approach for the Palace man, it has not taken long for a new attacker to crop up as a Chelsea target.

The Blues are open to signing Xavi Simons, after he enjoyed a strong season in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig.

Simons is very keen on a move to Chelsea, however the Blues are joined in their interest in the Dutchman by Arsenal. (The Chelsea Chronicle)