Report: Chelsea ready to move for ‘dream’ January transfer target | OneFootball

Chelsea’s January Midfield Plans Take Shape Amid Injury Concerns

Chelsea’s hierarchy are preparing for an active January transfer window, with the club’s recruitment department identifying three standout midfield targets as Enzo Maresca looks to reinforce his squad. With injuries hampering consistency and depth, Maresca views midfield reinforcements as vital to sustaining Chelsea’s trophy ambitions this season.

Wharton the Long-Term Prize

Crystal Palace’s young midfielder Adam Wharton has emerged as Chelsea’s dream target. According to TeamTalk sources, the 21-year-old’s “maturity, vision, and ability to dictate tempo from deep” have made him one of England’s most coveted young players. Chelsea’s scouts view him as a potential cornerstone for years to come, though Palace remain firm that he will not be sold mid-season.

A January deal would require “a nine-figure sum,” a price tag that even Chelsea’s ownership, known for their aggressive spending, are unlikely to meet. A move for Wharton in the summer of 2026 appears far more realistic, giving both clubs the time to structure a future agreement.

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Paz Emerges as the Immediate Option

With Wharton likely unavailable until the summer, Chelsea’s focus has turned to Nico Paz. The 21-year-old Spanish playmaker, currently impressing at Como in Serie A, has caught the attention of the London club. TeamTalk report that “Chelsea have made direct enquiries to both the Serie A club and Paz’s representatives,” with the former Real Madrid academy graduate “intrigued by a Premier League move.”

Paz’s creative spark and “left-footed flair” fit seamlessly into Maresca’s possession-based system. Como, who are financially strong, are reluctant to lose their star player but could be swayed by a significant offer. Chelsea’s model of investing in young, high-upside talent makes Paz a logical target for January.

Mainoo an Ambitious but Unlikely Move

Another name under consideration is Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo. The teenager has reportedly grown “frustrated with limited minutes under Ruben Amorim” and may seek a loan move to gain regular football. Chelsea rate him highly, believing his “homegrown, dynamic, and technically gifted” profile aligns perfectly with their youth-driven strategy.

However, as TeamTalk note, sources within the club are doubtful that United will approve a loan move to a direct Premier League rival. Mainoo’s future could instead lie on loan at a club outside the top six.

Lavia Concerns Prompt Midfield Action

Romeo Lavia’s ongoing injury setbacks have accelerated Chelsea’s plans. Once hailed as a key long-term signing, the Belgian midfielder has struggled to find rhythm. TeamTalk reveal that “some at Chelsea now whisper that a summer 2026 sale could be on the cards,” potentially freeing space and wages for a major addition next year.

For now, Nico Paz appears the most attainable target for January. Chelsea’s approach remains measured and data-driven, seeking to balance short-term requirements with their broader strategic rebuild. With Maresca’s side still in the hunt across multiple competitions, a new midfield signing could be pivotal in maintaining momentum into the second half of the campaign.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea supporter’s perspective, this update will be received with cautious optimism. The midfield has looked unbalanced at times this season, largely due to Romeo Lavia’s ongoing absence and the heavy reliance on Enzo Fernandez and Moisés Caicedo. Seeing the club move proactively for reinforcements suggests lessons are being learned from previous windows.

Nico Paz looks the most realistic and exciting option. His technical quality and passing range would add a different dimension to Maresca’s midfield, especially in matches where creativity from deep areas is lacking. Fans would welcome a player of his profile, reminiscent of how Cole Palmer reinvigorated the attack after arriving from Manchester City.

Wharton remains the dream signing. His Premier League experience and composure under pressure mark him as an ideal long-term leader in midfield. While the price tag is steep, Chelsea’s ownership has proven willing to invest heavily when they believe in a player’s ceiling.

As for Mainoo, supporters understand that a move from Manchester United would be complicated. Still, the ambition to target such talents demonstrates Chelsea’s intent to stay at the forefront of English football’s youth revolution.

Ultimately, Maresca’s second season has shown promise but requires depth to sustain a top-four push. If Paz or another creative midfielder arrives in January, it could be the catalyst for Chelsea to close the gap on the league’s elite.