Following a sluggish beginning to the season, doubts were raised about Enzo Maresca’s role as head coach, but the Italian has since overseen a turnaround, with his team securing three consecutive wins across all competitions.
Their latest triumph came in a 3-0 away win against Nottingham Forest, a result that led to Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal. Pedro Neto delivered a standout performance, contributing a goal and an assist, and completing three dribbles.
Alejandro Garnacho, by contrast, struggled to make an impact. The 21-year-old has yet to score since joining from Manchester United, and Jamie Gittens has also had a slow start.
The former Borussia Dortmund winger has failed to register a goal or assist in his first eight appearances, raising concerns for Maresca regarding his current form.
This highlights the gamble clubs take when opting for emerging prospects over established stars. It’s a debatable strategy from the west London side, especially given their ability to attract elite wingers globally.
Nonetheless, TEAMtalk reports that Chelsea are now pursuing another young talent, having entered negotiations with representatives of Vasco da Gama’s Rayan Vitor, who is attracting widespread interest.
Barcelona, PSG, Tottenham Hotspur, and Arsenal are also reportedly keen, with the 19-year-old being hailed as one of Brazil’s brightest prospects in recent years. However, securing his services won’t come cheap.
His contract includes a £35m release clause, though Chelsea might negotiate a fee closer to the £26m – £29m range.
Jamie Carragher has previously voiced his opinion on Chelsea’s transfer strategy, saying: “The club hides behind a prolonged transitional period that keeps being extended, focusing on signing the same type of young players in every transfer window.”
Rayan Vitor arguably fits that mold, though he could still prove to be a valuable long-term addition at Stamford Bridge, given his promising displays.
The Vasco da Gama forward has already scored 15 times in 2025 and earned praise from scout Ben Mattinson.
Still, with Garnacho, Gittens, and Estevao recently added to the squad, bringing in another young winger may raise eyebrows. Strengthening the defense should arguably be a higher priority, considering Maresca’s limited options at the back.
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