5 Players Chelsea Should Scout at Euro 2024
Five Euro 2024 Stars Chelsea Should Scout for Summer 2024 Transfers
The summer of 2024 is crucial for Chelsea as they complete a four-window plan set by the new ownership group. There is immense pressure to find the missing pieces for a squad that continues to struggle.
Chelsea have had as many permanent managers (four) as transfer windows under the new owners. Enzo Maresca is the latest to take charge, bringing a unique style of play which could require further adjustments in the transfer market.
With Euro 2024 offering a prime opportunity for scouts to identify potential signings, here are five players Chelsea should closely monitor.
Marcin Bulka (Poland, Nice)
Maresca emphasizes the ball-playing abilities of his goalkeeper, which suggests a starting role for Spaniard Robert Sanchez. However, Sanchez has been underwhelming with his shot-stopping abilities. Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, who spent three years in Chelsea’s academy before moving to PSG in 2019, could be a familiar and valuable addition.
Riccardo Calafiori (Italy, Centre-back)
Maresca prefers an inverted full-back, but Ben Chilwell doesn’t seem suited for this role, and questions remain over Marc Cucurella despite his late-season form. With Levi Colwill wanting to return to a traditional centre-back position, Chelsea should consider Italian centre-back Riccardo Calafiori. Calafiori played a crucial role in Bologna’s stellar campaign and can comfortably switch between central and wide positions.
Georgiy Sudakov (Ukraine, Centre-midfield)
Chelsea knows the challenge of scouting Ukrainian league players at a high level. Midfielder Georgiy Sudakov, a former teammate of Mykhailo Mudryk, is valued at over £60m. The 21-year-old needs to prove himself on a big stage like Euro 2024 before commanding such a price. After the expensive acquisition of Mudryk, Chelsea cannot afford another misstep.
Lois Openda (Belgium, Striker)
Chelsea hopes Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku will score and attract interest this summer, but scouts should also watch Lois Openda. Openda has consistently scored across different leagues: 18 goals for Vitesse, 21 in Ligue 1 with Lens, and 24 for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga. At 24, Openda’s best years are ahead, making him an intriguing prospect for Chelsea’s attack.
Joshua Zirkzee (Netherlands, Striker)
Joshua Zirkzee, who was called into the Dutch national team late, enjoyed an excellent season at Bologna with 11 goals. His impact in Serie A extends beyond his goal tally. With a £34m release clause expected to be triggered by AC Milan, Chelsea could consider a rival bid if Zirkzee impresses at Euro 2024.
Conclusion
Scouting these five players during Euro 2024 could help Chelsea find the necessary reinforcements to strengthen their squad. Each player offers unique skills and potential that could be crucial for Chelsea’s future success.