Chelsea submit 'more than one enquiry' as Maresca attempts HIJACK

Cameron Smith

3 Mar 2025 09:00 CST
3 min read

Chelsea have reportedly submitted “more than one enquiry” for AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, although the Netherlands international is expected to sign a new contract at San Siro.

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The 26-year-old has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs over the past 12 months, including Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, although Chelsea have stepped up their interest in recent weeks.

Enzo Maresca already has a plethora of midfield options at his disposal, however the Blues are eager to sign reinforcements this summer amid reports that Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could be sold after just one year at the club.

Reijnders has been earmarked as a key target by the Stamford Bridge hierarchy, but the Dutchman is close to signing a new AC Milan contract until 2030, according to Relevo.

Chelsea have enquired several times about Reijnders’ availability, however Milan are expected to tie him down to fresh terms in a bid to ward off interest from the Premier League giants.

The Netherlands midfielder may be available for a summer transfer if Milan fail to qualify for the Champions League, but the Serie A side are set to “do everything possible” to retain his services until at least next summer as Chelsea prepare to hijack their contract extension deal.

Joao Felix swap deal?

Although Chelsea are interested in signing Reijnders this summer, a swap deal involving Joao Felix is unlikely to happen, despite the Portugal star’s desire to join Milan permanently.

Felix secured a loan move to San Siro during the January transfer window, but his form has been notably poor since his arrival at the club, barring an impressive debut goal, and he has been widely criticised in the Italian media.

Furthermore, Milan have already decided against signing him on a permanent deal this summer, as per multiple reports, with Chelsea set to face a challenge in their bid to offload him.