Chelsea tipped to offer ‘three players plus cash’ for World Cup winner in sensational swap deal

Chelsea are reportedly plotting an audacious move for a World Cup-winning player by offering a combination of players and cash in a high-profile swap deal, as per recent reports. The Blues, currently managed by Enzo Maresca, have been performing impressively in the 2024/25 Premier League season, sitting second in the standings as of Christmas Day. This marks a remarkable start to the campaign, with Maresca’s tactics continuing to show promise. The club’s strong performance so far has been underpinned by key players like Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson, who have been instrumental in Chelsea’s attack, with the duo netting a combined 21 goals.

Despite their solid offensive play, Chelsea’s 0-0 draw against Everton on Christmas Day highlighted a rare slip, as they failed to score in a league match for the first time this season. Nevertheless, this result hasn’t dampened the overall optimism surrounding the team, as they have remained one of the most potent attacking forces in the Premier League this term. Under Maresca’s guidance, Chelsea have emerged as genuine contenders for the top spots, and the club’s management is reportedly looking to bolster their squad further in the upcoming transfer window.

Maresca’s proactive approach in the summer transfer window helped reshape Chelsea’s squad. The Blues focused on offloading players who no longer fit into Maresca’s tactical plans, but they also secured several high-profile acquisitions. These included Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid, Jadon Sancho on loan from Manchester United with an obligation to buy, and Pedro Neto from Wolves, all of whom were expected to contribute significantly to the team’s offensive strength.

Fresh reports suggest that Chelsea is now eyeing a major move in the upcoming January transfer window to strengthen their attacking options. The latest rumors, emanating from Argentina and relayed by Calciomercato, indicate that Chelsea are closely monitoring Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez. The 26-year-old Argentine forward has been a consistent performer for Inter, registering over 20 goals in each of the last three Serie A seasons. However, his current campaign has seen a dip in form, with just five goals to his name and no goals in the last month.

Despite this, Martinez remains a highly sought-after talent, and his potential move to Chelsea could provide him with the fresh start he needs. The move would also align with Maresca’s desire to add another striker to the squad, creating more competition for the starting spot alongside Nicolas Jackson. A move to Stamford Bridge could rejuvenate Martinez’s career and provide Chelsea with a proven goal-scorer to complement their already impressive attacking players.

The deal reportedly being discussed between Chelsea and Inter Milan would see Chelsea offering a combination of players plus a significant sum of money. According to the reports, Chelsea would include Carney Chukwuemeka, Benoit Badiashile, and Mykhailo Mudryk in the package for Martinez. Chukwuemeka, a promising midfield prospect, has struggled for regular playing time under Maresca, while Badiashile, a solid center-back, has seen limited opportunities in the first team. Mudryk, however, is the most notable player in this proposed package, although his situation is complicated by a current suspension from the FA following an adverse doping test result. Mudryk has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, stating that he never knowingly used banned substances, and his team is working to investigate the cause of the positive test.

This potential swap deal could represent a significant shake-up for Chelsea’s squad, with the Blues looking to further strengthen their attack while parting ways with a few players who have failed to establish themselves in the team. Maresca’s squad overhaul, particularly in terms of player acquisitions and departures, signals the club’s ambitions to challenge for silverware this season. With the Premier League title race heating up, Chelsea is determined to position themselves as one of the league’s dominant forces.

The inclusion of Mudryk in the deal raises questions, as his current suspension may complicate matters. However, if Chelsea can resolve his situation, the Ukrainian winger’s pace and directness could be a valuable asset for any club, including Inter Milan. Mudryk, who joined Chelsea amid great expectations, has yet to fully justify his price tag, and a change of scenery might benefit both parties.

While Chelsea’s pursuit of Martinez is far from confirmed, the move indicates the club’s long-term strategy to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. The Blues have been impressive under Maresca’s guidance, and this potential deal could be the latest in a series of strategic moves aimed at maintaining their momentum throughout the season.

For Inter Milan, the offer from Chelsea represents an opportunity to secure multiple players who could immediately contribute to their squad. Chukwuemeka, Badiashile, and Mudryk all possess considerable potential, though their futures at Chelsea remain uncertain. For Inter, this could be an opportunity to rebuild and freshen up their squad while allowing Martinez to pursue new challenges.

If Chelsea is able to pull off this ambitious deal, it would send a strong message to their rivals in both the Premier League and across Europe. The Blues are not content to rest on their laurels; instead, they are looking to further strengthen their squad and add even more attacking power as they push for both domestic and European glory.

This move would also highlight the club’s ability to navigate the complexities of the transfer market, offering players in exchange for a top-tier striker. Martinez, with his World Cup-winning pedigree, would be a key addition to the Chelsea squad, adding depth to their forward line and potentially transforming their attack into one of the most feared in Europe.

The potential swap deal is still in its early stages, but the mere suggestion of such a high-profile move indicates Chelsea’s intentions for the upcoming transfer window. With Maresca’s team showing real promise this season, adding a player of Martinez’s caliber could provide the necessary firepower to help the Blues secure silverware come the end of the season.

In conclusion, Chelsea’s interest in Lautaro Martinez is a statement of intent, demonstrating their willingness to invest heavily in the squad to achieve success. If the proposed swap deal goes through, it could have significant implications not only for Chelsea but also for the broader footballing landscape, with both clubs potentially reshaping their futures in the process.