Chelsea look towards Fedor Chalov after Moussa Dembélé rejection — report

As we venture into the first transfer window of the new decade, the intensity of rumors continues to grow. Reports of a bid for Moussa Dembélé had already captured the media headlines, and while the bid was reportedly rejected (Lyon even came up with a public statement about keeping the striker for the foreseeable future), it’s not hard to fathom Chelsea going back in for the former Fulham prospect. But while we try to make progress on that front, the club will obviously monitor other targets as alternative options.

One of those mentioned in the rumor mill regularly these days is Timo Werner Fedor Chalov. The striker was linked to Chelsea again recently, so maybe this is not just another random name-peddling.

The Russia international plays for CSKA Moscow in the Russian Premier League, and at just 21, has already accumulated 113 senior team appearances. He made his international debut in March of last year. But while Chalov is undoubtedly a talented young striker, he is extremely inconsistent (ed.note: as young players often are). He had 6 goals and 2 assists in 15 league appearances in 16-17, 6 goals and 5 assists in 20 league appearances in 17-18, 15 goals and 7 assists in 30 league appearances in 18-19 and 5 goals and 4 assists in 19 league appearances so far this season.

On the plus side, Chalov is young, has shown that he has the potential to score goals, is highly rated in Russia and will not command a high price, relatively speaking. Although Brighton are also circling the waters for his signature and Crystal Palace had a €25m bid rejected for him in the summer, he would ideally not cost above €30m-€35m.

Since money is not unlimited, it would be prudent to spend large sums on positions in need of actual improvement instead, like centre back, left back and maybe even the wings.

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