Chelsea could agree forward signing after Mykhailo Mudryk ban update – sources
Chelsea could look to sign a new forward in the January transfer window if Mykhailo Mudryk receives a lengthy ban, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed the London giants could look to replace the Ukraine international if he’s unavailable for a substantial period of time.
Mudryk was provisionally suspended by the Football Association (FA) earlier this month (17 December) after failing a drugs test.
As per FA rules, the winger has the opportunity to provide an explanation for the result during this suspension while a decision is taken on a formal charge.
The 23-year-old has insisted the failed test is “a complete shock” and claimed he has “not done anything wrong”.
He last played for Chelsea on 28 November after missing five games in the lead-up to the news of his suspension.
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba was handed a four-year doping ban earlier this year before his suspension was later reduced to 18 months on appeal.
Enzo Maresca’s side could look to bring in a replacement for Mudryk next month if he receives a lengthy ban.
Chelsea could strengthen attacking options in January
Finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider Chelsea will have to make a decision on whether or not to terminate Mudryk’s contract if the allegations are proven.
The forward is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2031 after signing an eight-and-a-half-year deal following his £89million move from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023.
The Ukrainian has started nine games for the club this season, where he scored three goals and laid on five assists.
Although Chelsea have various other attacking options in their bloated squad, they could look to sign a replacement for Mudryk over the coming weeks.
Maresca’s side currently sit second in the Premier League table despite their 2-1 loss against Fulham on Boxing Day.
In other news, Chelsea expecting Christopher Nkunku bid.
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