Why Chelsea are now hopeful of signing Morgan Rogers as Enzo Maresca identifies two different roles for him

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Looking to strengthen their attack this summer, Chelsea have identified Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers as a target.

At the end of April, it was reported that Chelsea had shortlisted Rogers, who has impressed in the Premier League this season.

In 35 appearances, the attacking midfielder has scored eight goals and provided nine assists.

It is no surprise, then, that Villa are reluctant to sell Rogers when the transfer window opens, but Chelsea do not seem to be deterred.

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Chelsea hopeful of landing Morgan Rogers after Jhon Duran sale

Villa have already sold one of their best players this year, Jhon Duran. The striker was not always a starter at Villa Park, but he was still able to score 12 goals in 29 appearances for them in the current campaign, showing his impact.

With the Villans willing to sell Duran to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in January, according to GiveMeSport, Chelsea are hopeful that they will also consider sanctioning an exit for Rogers.

If not, the Blues do have other attackers on their radar. For example, the club are also thought to be interested in Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens.

Chelsea are hoping to sign Gittens for £30m this summer, though bringing him in for that fee could hinge on whether Carney Chukwuemeka heads in the opposite direction or not.

Chukwuemeka is currently at Dortmund on loan and appears to have done enough to convince the German club. As per the reliable Fabrizio Romano, Dortmund want to retain Chukwuemeka’s services, which Enzo Maresca is likely to be fine about after overlooking him this season.

Where Morgan Rogers could play at Chelsea

A move to Chelsea this summer would see Rogers reunite with Maresca, with the two having worked together in Manchester City’s academy.

Rogers has spoken positively about Maresca in the past so is likely to get on with the Chelsea boss at Stamford Bridge.

In terms of where he could play, Maresca envisions Rogers on the left or in a central role, according to journalist Simon Phillips.