Everything has changed for Chelsea this summer, after a season in which they missed out on many trophies, but managed to re-enter the European competition.
However, it is not enough to keep Mauricio Pochettino in the job.
After his sacking at the end of May, the Blues board focused on finding a new manager for the 2024/25 season, appointing Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca, who led the Foxes back to the top flight early on. effort.
The Italian has wasted no time in strengthening his new team, as he tries to lead the club through a transition period to attempt a return to the Premier League's top four.
He has already added defender Tosin Adarabioyo and central midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to his Blues squad, having joined him from Leicester City this summer.
Despite the recent additions, Maresca is still looking to improve his own, including bringing in one player who has been in the Premier League.
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Chelsea have held talks with Barcelona's Brazilian winger Raphinha over a move to Stamford Bridge this summer.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a return to the Premier League after a spell at Leeds United, but could finally return to England in the off-season.
He has found game time hard to come by after the emergence of 17-year-old star Lamine Yamal, who won the Young Player of the Tournament at the recent European Championships.
Raphinha managed 37 appearances in all competitions last season, but is keen on a return to the Premier League, with the Spanish giants wanting £50m for his services this summer.
His arrival in west London may see little change in Cole Palmer's position, however, it could allow the Englishman to reach the next level.
Why Raphinha's arrival would allow Maresca to move to Palmer
22-year-old Palmer has enjoyed his best campaign so far in 2023/24, contributing 33 goals and assists, the most of any player in the Premier League.
He enjoyed his best performance in a No.10 role behind the striker, scoring four goals against Everton in the Blues' 6-0 win at Stamford Bridge in April.
However, he spent the majority of the 2023/24 campaign on the right-back, however Raphinha's arrival could allow for a change in the England international's role – the Barca man is used to operating on that side.
When comparing the two on FBref, Raphinha, who was once called a “wonder” by Tottenham defender Emerson Royal, has produced incredible numbers, some of which are even higher than what Palmer could do.
Although he produced fewer combined goals and assists last season, the Brazilian managed to score more with 90 combined shots than Palmer.
|
How did Raphinha compare to Palmer in 2023/24 |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Mathematics |
Raph |
Palmer |
|
Games |
28 |
34 |
|
Terms + help |
15 |
33 |
|
90 shots |
3.8 |
3.4 |
|
90 photo creation actions |
5.9 |
5.6 |
|
The success of the takeover |
52% |
50% |
|
Aerials won |
64% |
20% |
|
Statistics with FBref |
||
Raphinha has also achieved a high level of success, winning many aerial contests, which may add a different option to Maresca's team in the final third, increasing their chances of returning to the Champions League spots.
Although the Blues may face competition from many other Premier League teams, it would be a great addition and a statement signing for Maresca.
The club may have focused on future recruitment in recent months, but if they are to make an immediate impact and return to the Premier League's top flight, they must also consider additions like Raphinha who will make an immediate impact. at Stamford Bridge.
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