Chelsea is exploring ways to boost its attack under new boss Enzo Maresca, who places high importance on wingers to stretch the play, pin defenders, and excel in one-on-one situations. Right now, only Noni Madueke fully fits this style, while Pedro Neto and Jadon Sancho offer tactical alternatives.
To complement Madueke, Chelsea is eyeing a winger for the opposite flank. According to Spanish reports, Chelsea—alongside Manchester City and Al Hilal—is targeting Barcelona’s Raphinha, a player they once tried to sign in 2022 before he opted for a £55 million move to Barça from Leeds United.
Raphinha has been in blistering form this season, with 30 goals and 21 assists across 49 games. Should Barcelona secure the treble, he could even enter the Ballon d’Or conversation.
At Chelsea, Cole Palmer has been productive with 14 goals and 9 assists but has recently struggled due to tighter marking. A direct winger like Raphinha could relieve pressure on Palmer by dragging defenders wide and opening central spaces.
Analyst Statman Dave has gone as far as calling Raphinha “the best player in the world” this season because of his explosive output and creativity. Pairing him with players like Jackson and Madueke, who make sharp runs, could unlock even more from Palmer and make Chelsea’s attack far more unpre
dictable.
