Report: Chelsea and Dortmund in talks over multi-player transfer strategy | OneFootball

Chelsea’s Tactical Play with Dortmund Could Trigger Major Summer Shake-Up

Focus on Gittens Shows Chelsea’s New Transfer Thinking

In a summer that’s already rumbling with early intent, Chelsea’s recruitment strategy appears to be evolving—smart, subtle, and underpinned by financial nous. As TEAMtalk revealed, “Chelsea are in active talks over a move for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens and have two secret weapons as they look to agree deals early in the transfer window.”

With Mykhailo Mudryk’s suspension and doubts swirling over Noni Madueke’s role, it’s no surprise that Enzo Maresca has prioritised wide reinforcements. Gittens, a lively winger who brings raw energy and Bundesliga experience, is firmly on the Blues’ radar. Signing him ahead of the Club World Cup shows a hunger for cohesion and continuity before the season’s real business begins.

Sancho and Chukwuemeka at the Heart of Complex Dealings

Chelsea’s dealings with Dortmund extend beyond Gittens. “TEAMtalk understands that Dortmund are keen to sign Chukwuemeka permanently this summer,” and there’s the intriguing possibility of a web of swap deals materialising. Chukwuemeka, who has impressed during his loan stint, could see his temporary stay converted into a permanent one.

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The club’s willingness to offload Noni Madueke for the right price, alongside the “obligation to sign Manchester United loanee Sancho permanently for roughly £25m,” gives Chelsea flexibility—both tactically and financially.

What’s fascinating is the domino effect: “If Chelsea decide to sign Sancho permanently that will give them the option of including him or Chukwuemeka in a ‘separate’ swap deal for Gittens.” It’s a clever way to counteract rising costs while staying within PSR boundaries—important, as Premier League finances come under increasing scrutiny.

Player Valuations May Unlock Mutually Beneficial Deal

Both Gittens and Chukwuemeka are valued around the £35m mark, meaning any ‘separate’ swap agreement could allow Chelsea and Dortmund to balance their books neatly. As the article notes: “They would effectively cancel themselves out, which would be helpful for both clubs’ PSR (Profitability and Sustainability Rules) situations.”

There’s logic in leveraging each club’s needs to execute a well-oiled, multi-faceted deal. Dortmund have historically thrived by picking up undervalued or underutilised English talent—Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham being just two stellar examples. In Chukwuemeka, they may see another gem, particularly if Chelsea’s midfield grows too congested under Maresca.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan’s lens, this is exactly the type of transfer strategy that’s been missing in recent years—forward-thinking, financially aware, and prioritising quality over quantity. Jamie Gittens isn’t just another name in the scattergun approach of the past; he’s a clear, targeted move aimed at filling a tactical gap.

There’s also something quite refreshing about using swap-style negotiations rather than bloated spending. If Chelsea can bring in Gittens while offloading Sancho or Chukwuemeka in a well-balanced trade, that’s clever football business. The club gets younger, leaner, and hopefully more cohesive under Maresca’s vision.

Sancho’s situation is more complex. He’s a known quantity for Dortmund, but questions remain over his long-term motivation and consistency. If he’s not in Maresca’s plans, using him to secure Gittens—who arguably has more upside—makes complete sense.

Chukwuemeka leaving is bittersweet. He’s young, technical, and could still shine in the Premier League, but if he feels more valued in Germany, fans will respect his decision. Overall, this potential triple-pronged deal feels like Chelsea operating with clarity—at long last.