The Chelsea Chronicle can exclusively reveal that Chelsea were considering signing one of Europe’s most promising young strikers following Liam Delap’s hamstring injury.
Delap is set for a spell on the sidelines after injuring his hamstring in Chelsea‘s 2-0 win against Fulham just before the international break.
Marc Guiu has been recalled from Sunderland to fill in for Delap, but bringing the 19-year-old back to Stamford Bridge was not the only option that the Blues discussed.
Guiu made three appearances for the Black Cats before his season-long loan was brought to a premature end.
- READ MORE: Sunderland sporting director opens up on relationship with Chelsea after Marc Guiu recall
Chelsea discussed signing Emanuel Emegha after Liam Delap injury
Chelsea were linked with Conrad Harder in the final few days of the transfer window, but sources have told The Chelsea Chronicle‘s transfer expert Graeme Bailey that the Blues also thought about signing Emanuel Emegha from sister club Strasbourg.
However, after a brief discussion, it was decided that it would be better for the 22-year-old to remain in France, where he would play regularly.
“Chelsea brought Guiu back but I can confirm internally there was a conversation about Emegha coming in but it did not last long — they know he needs to be playing and they want him to spend another season under Liam Rosenior,” Bailey told The Chelsea Chronicle.
“Chelsea, as TCC previously revealed, considered bringing in Emegha this summer. But having talked with the player and Strasbourg hierarchy it was deemed his progress would be best served in France.
“BlueCo had chances to sell this summer too, but they said no — West Ham love the player, but they are not alone with both Leeds and Sunderland looking, there were also teams in Italy and Germany.
“Chelsea and BlueCo know they have a huge, huge talent on their hands — and yes at this point they see him having a future at Stamford Bridge.”
Delap is not the only injury problem Chelsea have right now. Enzo Maresca‘s men have been without Cole Palmer for their last two Premier League games.
The England international’s groin issue is not thought to be serious, though.
Emanuel Emegha’s stats in 2024/25 season
Emegha attracting interest from other Premier League clubs over the summer does not come as a shock.
The Dutchman had a bright 2024/25 campaign and is a young forward with a lot of potential. In 27 league appearances for Strasbourg, he managed to register 14 goals and three assists.
This season, Emegha has already scored three goals in all competitions, helping Rosenior’s side to qualify for the league phase of the Conference League.
Later down the line, Emegha could very well be a good option for Chelsea. He is certainly a name for the club’s supporters to keep an eye on.
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