Fabrizio Romano reveals Chelsea want Man City wonderkid

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 9 Feb 2025 21:12 GMT
• 3 min read

Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Chelsea wanted to sign Manchester City starlet Nico O’Reilly in January.

Romano reports that Chelsea made a move for the teenager during the winter window as they are big fans of the youngster.

However, City rejected Chelsea’s move because they were decimated by injuries and lacked squad depth.

READ MORE: Premier League January transfers 2025: All the Done Deals

Romano’s claims have been supported by Man City manager Pep Guardiola.

What did Guardiola say?

Guardiola said: “We had a lot of problems with injuries. So we were not able to loan or sell.

“That’s why we need Nico, all the players, James McAtee, Divin Mubama, all of them.

“There are a lot of games and we need them.”

READ MORE: Saudi Pro League January transfers 2025: All the Done Deals

O’Reilly, 19, is regarded as one of Man City’s most talented young players and is tipped for a big future in the game.

He made his debut for City during the Community Shield against Man Utd last summer, starting the 1-1 draw which was eventually won on penalties.

The midfielder has received more game time in recent weeks, particularly in the cup competitions.

He scored his first goal in January in the FA Cup win over Salford City, while he also started the 2-1 victory against Leyton Orient in February.

In total, O’Reilly has made seven appearances for City’s senior team this season.

He has been a regular in England’s youth teams, playing for the Under-16, Under-17, Under-18 and Under-20 national teams.

He has been with Man City’s academy since the age of eight, working his way through the age groups before playing for the senior team.

Man City are next in action on Tuesday when they play Real Madrid in the Champions League last-24 in the first leg at the Etihad.