Chelsea have little over a week until their 2024/25 Premier League season kicks off against Manchester City. The Blues welcome the champions to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, August 18 and there is still plenty of work to do on and off the pitch.
Enzo Maresca’s squad did not have the best of pre-season tours in the United States, having lost three of their five games played. In fact, the only win came against Club America while the side could only draw with Wrexham. Of course, pre-season is not about results and instead about getting minutes in the tank and building up fitness, although some of the performances were far from ideal.
The west Londoners face Inter Milan on Sunday in their final pre-season friendly before facing Pep Guardiola’s side one week later. Maresca will be keen to play a full strength team against the Italians, especially now Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella have returned to training following an extended break.
It’s possible, however, that new signings come through the door between now and the summer transfer window deadline of August 30. The Blues continue to be linked with a prolific No.9, while a number of forwards also appear likely to move on in the next three weeks. With this in mind, soccerhuz.com has detailed what Chelsea’s dream forward line might look like next season.
Victor Osimhen agreed
Chelsea have held a long-term interest in Napoli striker Victor Osimhen. The 25-year-old has earned a reputation for being a lethal finisher and with two years remaining on his contract at Napoli it’s thought he could be on the way out this summer.
According to the Athletic last week, alongside permanent transfer talks for Romelu Lukaku, negotiations are ongoing for Osimhen to arrive in west London on a season-long loan which includes an option to buy. Talk of a loan deal has since been rubbished by Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, although it’s possible the Nigerian arrives on a permanent transfer.
