Chelsea on the Verge of Landing Rising Star Jamie Gittens in Major Transfer Coup
Chelsea are close to finalizing an agreement with Borussia Dortmund for winger Jamie Gittens, though the England U21 star is expected to complete his move to Stamford Bridge only following the conclusion of the Club World Cup.
The player is presently in the United States participating in FIFA's restructured competition but has featured in just one group stage match for Dortmund amid ongoing transfer rumors.
The Blues were eager to secure the 20-year-old's signature prior to the tournament's commencement but saw their initial offer of approximately €55 million (£47million, $64.5 million) rejected. Dortmund have consistently demanded €65 million (£55.5 million, $76 million) for Gittens during this transfer window, and according to Bild, Chelsea are now prepared to satisfy the German side's asking price, making a deal highly probable.
Chelsea's initial reluctance to match Dortmund's valuation led to stalled negotiations before the Club World Cup began, though talks are reported to have resumed in the United States during the ongoing tournament. With Chelsea now adjusting their position and an agreement appearing imminent, there was speculation about whether they could complete and register Gittens before the knockout rounds.
Nevertheless, it's believed that any deal will be finalized after the summer competition, which wraps up on July 13. Dortmund are looking to extend their participation when they meet Monterrey in the last 16 following their group stage success. Chelsea, on the other hand, will face Benfica after securing second place behind Flamengo in Group D.
The London club are actively seeking one or two wide players this summer following their decision not to make Jadon Sancho's loan move permanent due to disagreements over contract terms. Additionally, there have been suggestions that Noni Madueke might depart the club.
Although Gittens had an impressive breakthrough campaign in the Bundesliga last term, he continues to develop as a player. Most of his 15 goal involvements across all competitions came in the first half of the season, with Niko Kovač frequently benching the 20-year-old after taking over from Nuri Sahin as head coach.
His potential is clear, though, and Chelsea are allegedly ready to present the winger with a seven-year deal.