Report – Chelsea to rival Arsenal for 24-year-old midfield star if key exit happens

Transfer News: Chelsea to enter race for Arsenal target James Maddison

According to transfer news from football.london, Chelsea could be set to rival Arsenal in the race for James Maddison in case Hakim Ziyech departs this summer.

Ziyech has been with Chelsea for just a year, having signed from AFC Ajax during the summer transfer window last year. However, the Moroccan has endured a difficult time at the Bridge, having failed to meet the expectations that were on him upon his arrival.

Calciamercato (h/t Express) reported earlier this week that AC Milan are pushing hard to sign Ziyech this summer, albeit on loan. And, it is now being claimed that in case the former Ajax star ends up leaving, Chelsea could turn their attention towards Leicester City’s James Maddison.

Maddison, who is a priority transfer target for Arsenal this summer, has carved out quite the reputation for himself since arriving at the King Power Stadium three years ago. One of the top chance-creators in the Premier League, the 24-year-old has been a consistent performer for the Foxes, although his form dipped last season following an injury.

Nonetheless, the England international’s stock remains high as ever, with Arsenal intent on bringing him in to address their creative problems. But, Chelsea could now throw a spanner in the works for their London rivals in case Ziyech ends up leaving the Bridge.

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Ziyech, despite his struggles, is a quality operator and should be given another chance to prove himself at the Bridge. While Maddison is a proven Premier League commodity, he is likely to command a big transfer fee, something that might not be feasible for Chelsea at a time when the Blues are pushing for Erling Haaland.