Chelsea Eyeing Liverpool Duo After Losing Ngumoha

Chelsea’s recent loss of highly-rated academy talent Rio Ngumoha to Liverpool appears to have sparked a response from the London club. Reports now indicate that Todd Boehly is plotting a double swoop on the Reds, targeting two key players in an effort to reinforce Chelsea’s squad for the future.

Despite the historical rarity of direct transfers between the two clubs, Chelsea’s interest in Liverpool’s squad members is now gaining traction. Over the years, only a handful of players—such as Fernando Torres, Daniel Sturridge, and Joe Cole—have made the move between these two Premier League giants. However, with Chelsea in need of reinforcements, they are now reportedly aiming to change that trend.

According to reports from Antena2 via CaughtOffside, Chelsea have set their sights on Luis Díaz, one of Liverpool’s standout performers. The Colombian winger has been instrumental in Liverpool’s attacking setup, and his performances this season have drawn interest from multiple top clubs. While Liverpool are currently leading the Premier League, rumors suggest that Díaz’s contractual situation has left an opening for potential suitors.

The Blues are allegedly prepared to offer Díaz a lucrative deal that would make him one of the highest-paid players in their squad. Given Chelsea’s aggressive spending under Todd Boehly, such a move would be in line with their strategy of targeting top-tier talents from rival clubs.

Meanwhile, TBR Football, citing Graeme Bailey, claims that Chelsea are also keen on signing Liverpool’s second-choice goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher. With Robert Sánchez failing to fully convince as Chelsea’s long-term solution between the posts, the Blues are actively seeking competition in goal, and Kelleher has emerged as a prime target.

The 26-year-old Irish shot-stopper has impressed whenever called upon, particularly during Alisson Becker’s injury spells. Kelleher’s performances in both the Premier League and Champions League have shown that he is more than capable of being a first-choice goalkeeper elsewhere. However, Liverpool’s reluctance to lose a dependable backup may complicate Chelsea’s pursuit.

A major question remains—would Liverpool even consider selling two key players to a direct rival? While Chelsea are not currently in the title race, past encounters between the two clubs have been filled with drama, controversy, and fierce competition. The rivalry between Liverpool and Chelsea, particularly since the mid-2000s, has made negotiations between the two clubs highly complex.

Kelleher appears to be the more likely departure between the two, given his desire for more game time. The Irish goalkeeper has made 16 appearances this season, proving himself as a reliable deputy for Alisson. With Euro 2024 on the horizon, Kelleher may push for a move in search of regular first-team football to solidify his place in the Ireland squad.

On the other hand, Chelsea’s chances of landing Díaz seem significantly lower. The Colombian forward has been thriving under Arne Slot, scoring 12 goals in 32 appearances this season. His influence in Liverpool’s attack continues to grow, and with more than two years remaining on his contract, Liverpool remain in a strong position to retain him.

Moreover, Liverpool have learned from previous contract sagas involving key players like Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk. The club could look to extend Díaz’s deal and offer improved terms to ward off interest from Chelsea and other potential suitors.

Chelsea’s attempt to raid Liverpool also raises questions about the Blues’ overall transfer strategy. Since Todd Boehly’s takeover, Chelsea have spent heavily on young talents but have struggled to build a cohesive squad. Their lack of a consistent attacking threat and goalkeeping uncertainty have been glaring issues, making their pursuit of Díaz and Kelleher understandable.

However, persuading Liverpool to sell will be a different challenge altogether. While Chelsea may be able to tempt Kelleher with the promise of a starting role, Díaz’s situation is far more complicated. Liverpool’s attacking depth relies on him heavily, and any potential sale would demand an enormous transfer fee.

Financially, Chelsea’s spending power cannot be underestimated. The club has already broken multiple transfer records in the last two years, and if Boehly is determined to land both players, a high-stakes negotiation battle could ensue.

Yet, Liverpool’s priorities remain clear. The Reds are focused on winning the Premier League title and maintaining squad stability. Selling two key assets to Chelsea in the middle of a crucial campaign would be seen as a major risk—one that Liverpool are unlikely to take unless an irresistible offer comes their way.

For now, the speculation continues, but Liverpool fans can take comfort in knowing that their club holds the power in any potential negotiations. While Chelsea may be eyeing a transfer coup, actually pulling it off will require much more than just interest—it will require Liverpool’s willingness, and that remains in serious doubt.