Even with substantial investment from owner Todd Boehly since taking over in 2022, Chelsea has demonstrated a continued need for additional signings in several crucial positions. The defense has had its difficulties throughout the 2023/24 season, underscoring the necessity for reinforcements like Fulham center-back Tosin Adarabioyo, who joined Stamford Bridge on July 1st following his pre-contract agreement.
It’s unlikely that Tosin Adarabioyo will be the only defensive addition for Chelsea during the upcoming summer transfer window. New manager Enzo Maresca has recently been linked with players like Riccardo Calafiori.
However, Maresca is also focused on strengthening the attack, as Chelsea still lacks a decisive edge despite Cole Palmer’s impressive tally of 22 Premier League goals last season. While various names have been mentioned, the club is currently considering a move for a player who has recently made a significant impact in the Premier League.
The 27-year-old, who was valued at €60m (£51m) earlier this year, played 19 matches under Roberto De Zerbi for Brighton last season. He scored three goals and provided four assists, contributing to the club’s historic participation in European competition.
Chelsea’s reported interest in the Japanese forward is not surprising given his impressive form since joining Brighton. Since his debut in August 2022, he has contributed to 25 goals. While Jacobs has confirmed that no official approach has been made yet, Chelsea remains interested in Mitoma, which would mark a shift from their usual strategy of investing in younger attacking prospects for the future.
Mitoma previously caused trouble for Chelsea during Brighton’s 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge in 2023, and he could be an ideal addition for one player in particular at the club.
After joining Chelsea for £29.8m from Villarreal last summer, striker Nicolas Jackson faced criticism during his first Premier League season. At a major club like Chelsea, there is always high expectation for a centre-forward to lead and score goals.
Despite this, Jackson scored 14 goals in the Premier League last season, making him the club’s second-highest scorer. He clearly has the potential to become a top-quality striker. With the added support of a potential new signing like Mitoma, Jackson could elevate his game and succeed at Stamford Bridge.
Mitoma, praised as “sensational” by journalist Daniel Hussey, delivered 3.9 progressive passes per 90 minutes last season, highlighting his ability to advance the ball into attacking positions effectively.
A pass is deemed progressive if it moves at least 10 meters closer to the opponent’s goal or is completed into the penalty area. Mitoma also made 6.4 progressive carries for Brighton, placing him in the top 2% of all wingers across Europe’s top five leagues for the 2023/24 season.
He provided 0.3 assists per 90 minutes for the Seagulls, presenting a significant attacking threat in the final third. Should Mitoma join Chelsea this summer, Jackson could benefit greatly from his contributions.
Given the substantial investment in future talent, new manager Maresca might prefer a more experienced attacker to help propel Chelsea back into the top four. Mitoma’s proven ability to create chances in the final third could complement Jackson’s impressive goal-scoring form from the previous season.
