Chelsea are reportedly set to lodge a €32 million bid for Montpellier striker Elye Wahi, who is also a subject of interest from Arsenal.
Chelsea are set to launch a hefty bid worth around €32 million for Montpellier hitman Elye Wahi. That’s according to a report from French outlet RMC Sport, which claims that the Blues are likely to launch the offensive for Wahi very soon despite the fact that cross-London rivals Arsenal have made contact for the signing of the 20-year-old.
Regarded as one of the hottest young properties in European football, Wahi made quite an impact in Ligue 1 last season, notching 19 goals — up from 10 the season before — and recording six assists in 33 appearances as Michel Der Zakarian’s side finished 12th in Ligue 1 despite sacking two managers during the season.
A classic fox in the box in terms of taking his chances but equally comfortable carrying the ball and taking on opponents, the Frenchman looks to possess world-class potential.
Indeed, after his stellar showings in the 2022/23 campaign, several top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid, have expressed interest in securing Wahi’s signature. There is also no shortage of well-stocked Premier League suitors willing to splash the cash to secure his services.
Arsenal, for one, have been consistently linked with a move for Wahi over recent weeks and months. Although not in dire need of attacking reinforcements ahead of next season, the Gunners could do with some more depth in the striking department, as they currently have Gabriel Jesus as the only proven striker in their squad.
They view Wahi as a backup in that position who could also serve as an understudy to the Brazilian international and compete for the starting spot. However, signing Wahi just would not make much sense right now unless they are planning to offload both Eddie Nketiah and Folarin Balogun, the latter of whom enjoyed a 21-goal season in the same league as Wahi last term.
Nevertheless, Chelsea have now emerged as the frontrunner in the race for the young striker, as they are preparing a sizeable bid for the France Under-21 international. The report adds that the Blues plan is to loan the French prodigy out to Strasbourg once a deal is complete. But the player does not share the same idea and would rather move straight into Mauricio Pochettino’s first team.
Todd Boehly and BlueCo recently completed a full takeover of the Alsace-based Ligue 1 outfit and are also looking to loan Angelo Gabriel to Patrick Vieira’s side after signing the Brazilian wonderkid from Santos. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea’s opening offer will be enough to get the deal done. But this one is worth keeping an eye on as the Blues look to wrap up Wahi this week.
