Chelsea hold late discussions about another Manchester City player after failed Nico O’Reilly attempt

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Chelsea have reportedly been discussing another Manchester City player as a late transfer target after a failed attempt to sign Nico O’Reilly from the reigning Premier League champions.

Chelsea wrapped up one of their best signings of the modern era when they signed Cole Palmer from Man City back in 2023. Therefore, it’s interesting for supporters to hear that the Blues are linked with another raid on the Etihad Stadium.

Chelsea recently made an enquiry about Man City youngster Nico O’Reilly, but the attempt was knocked back for the 19-year-old midfielder.

Now, Enzo Maresca’s side are tipped with O’Reilly’s teammate on deadline day.

• READ MORE: Chelsea player now expected to stay on deadline day and Enzo Maresca will be pleased

Chelsea talking about another Man City player after failed Nico O’Reilly move

Journalist Simon Phillips has claimed via Substack on Monday afternoon that Chelsea have discussed Man City’s James McAtee as a late option in the mid-season transfer window.

However, he adds that there is ‘absolutely no chance’ that the 22-year-old star moves to Stamford Bridge today because it’s been left too late.

McAtee, who’s a Man City academy graduate, has been with Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad this season. In fact, the English attacker midfielder has scored five goals in 15 appearances across all competitions this campaign.

We wouldn’t say that the Blues are crying out for another signing who can play in the creative No.10 position.

However, Joao Felix will be absent from the Chelsea squad tonight versus West Ham as speculation around his potential loan move to AC Milan intensifies.

Enzo Maresca wanted James McAtee last summer

McAtee’s name has popped up in the final hours of the winter window as a transfer target for the Blues, but he’s actually been linked with the club in the past.

Back in June 2024, rumours claimed that Chelsea boss Maresca identified McAtee as a target he wanted to sign. Instead, the creative playmaker stayed put in Manchester this season.

Maresca previously coached McAtee when he managed in the Man City academy. Here is a look at the player’s record under him:

When you look at the incredible success Palmer has enjoyed in Chelsea colours, we wouldn’t be totally against the club taking a punt on Man City talent McAtee. It looks like they’ll need to wait until the summer if they want to step up their interest, though.