Chelsea have spent almost £800m acquiring players aged 23 and under since Todd Boehly's consortium took over the club from Roman Abramovich just two years ago. A considerable expense, together with the risk of facing a transfer ban, has not deterred the blues try to take advantage of favorable opportunities, particularly in South America.
Football Transfers has reported who are now interested in signing Santos prodigy JP Chermont in 2025, who they are also looking for players like Arsenal, Barcelona, Everton, real Madrid and Wolverhampton Wanderers. The 18-year-old right-back has a release clause amounting to approximately £58m, according to the report.
It is not the first time in the recent past that Chelsea have been interested in signing a Brazilian right-back, having already been interested in signing Pedro Lima earlier this summer. Wolverhampton Wanderers, however, took swift action to hijack Chelsea's deal with Sporting Recife, prompting the Blues to search the market for a long-term option.
Chelsea likely to withstand competition for Chermont
Chelsea will continue to spend a lot of money on younger players and their added spending in recent years is good proof of that. Todd Boehly seems confident in his sporting project and is unlikely to change in the future, despite the great interest in the services of JP Chermont.
Having played 29 games in the Santos first team, there is every reason to have faith in the player's qualities, especially as a long-term replacement for James Reece. The Chelsea captain has battled injuries for a number of years and with frustration growing over his suitability for the team, the acquisition of Chermont would also relieve some pressure on Malo Gusto.
It remains to be seen when exactly in 2025 Chelsea plan to start negotiations with Santos for the signing of Chermont. The player's possible arrival at Stamford Bridge could depend on James' fitness, as if the 24-year-old remains unavailable for several more weeks, the Blues could fast-track the youngster's move into the winter.
