Report: Chelsea were considering signing World Cup star in January, he’s now joined their rivals

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Reports have claimed that Chelsea were interested in a deal to sign Netherlands international Cody Gakpo before his move to Liverpool was confirmed.

According to The Athletic, the Blues were contemplating a bid before Christmas as well as fellow Premier League giants Manchester United.

The winger took the World Cup as his opportunity to impress on the big stage after he failed to secure a move to the Premier League before the season began.

His three goals for the Dutch side helped them advance to the Quarter-finals, where they lost on penalties to eventual champions Argentina.

There had been a lot of reports that the 23-year-old was headed to Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag being a great admirer of his abilities.

However, it was Liverpool who confirmed a deal to add Gakpo to their ranks in January from PSV.

Gakpo was wanted by Chelsea

Despite those two sides being the key players in the deal, The Athletic have claimed that Chelsea were also contemplating moving for the 23-year-old.

The Blues have endured a rough season in terms of goalscoring, with them paling in comparison to the sides they are rivalling to finish in the top four.

With Erling Haaland notching up 20 league goals already with his brace last night, it was a stark reminder of just how short the current crop at Stamford Bridge have been in front of goal.

In an attempt to increase their firepower, the Blues have already confirmed a deal to sign Molde striker David Datro Fofana when the January transfer window opens. However, there may be more hopes for his future prospects than what he can bring straight away.

They are also linked to a number of other attackers from around Europe, notably Rafael Leao from AC Milan.