Chelsea join Monaco, Everton, Liverpool in chase for Belgium’s next young star — report

Youri Tielemans has been the next big thing out of Belgium for some time now — as regular players of Football Manager will no doubt attest to — but so far he’s yet to have his head turned by riches beyond just the Belgian first division. That’s no doubt benefited his development, which has seen him feature constantly for RSC Anderlecht and reach new career highs this season for goals (18) and assists (11), while also making his national team debut.

But now, all signs point to an exit from the legendary Belgian side, with plenty of suitors ready to plunk down the millions to get the 19-year-old’s signature. Chelsea are just the latest club to be linked (not for the first time, mind), with interest already from the likes of Liverpool, Everton and Ligue 1 leaders AS Monaco. According to L'Equipe (via Sport Witness), it is in fact the free-scoring Champions League contenders from the Principality who are currently leading the chase.

Other sources agree.

Considering that Tielemans has been a full-time starter at the top tier of a European professional league, he’s unlikely to move somewhere only to be knocked back down to prospect status. That does put Chelsea at a disadvantage, unless of course we’re prepared to give young Youri a starring role immediately like we once did with his compatriot Eden Hazard.

Still, money talks and if there’s one thing Chelsea have, it’s money (plus glitz and glamour and world class facilities and the opportunity to play in the best league in the world).