‘Chelsea turn attention to Gibbs-White deal after Man City snub’
Chelsea have turned their attentions towards signing Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White as Enzo Maresca aims to bolster his squad.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 25-year-old would be interested in a move to Stamford Bridge.
Man City had been heavily linked with the England international, but prioritised alternative targets and are now closing in on a deal for Tijjani Reijnders.
Football Insider revealed on 10 May that Gibbs-White is flattered by the growing interest in his signature and Forest may be powerless to keep him.
Chelsea have now emerged as the newest contenders for his signature and are keeping a close eye on his situation at the City Ground with a deal in mind.
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 16 May that Forest may be forced to sell Gibbs-White as they aim to balance the books and avoid another PSR breach.
Chelsea plot move to sign Morgan Gibbs-White
Brown told Football Insider on 27 May that Arsenal have joined the race for Gibbs-White and are considering making a move for his signature.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, explained that the midfielder is keen to play Champions League football next season.
“Chelsea have an interest in a number of players,” he told Football Insider.
“It looks like being another busy transfer window for them, because Enzo Maresca is still looking to strengthen his squad and they’re not afraid to spend.
“Morgan Gibbs-White is a player I hear they’ve been having a look at.
“He’s a very talented player and will bring energy to their midfield, that’s what they want.
“He’s athletic and can make a big difference at both ends of the pitch.
“He’ll be interested in the move because he wants to play in the Champions League.
“So if he’s going to leave Forest, Chelsea will be right in there as one of the contenders.
“Especially since it looks like Man City have moved on from him.”
Mike Maignan deal could see Sanchez and Petrovic quit
Alongside their ambitions of strengthening in midfield, the Blues are also aiming to improve their goalkeeping options, with Mike Maignan their top target.
Football Insider revealed on 6 June that both Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic could leave Chelsea if they manage to complete a deal for Maignan.
The goalkeeper is entering the final year of his contract at AC Milan, opening up the opportunity to sign him on a cut-price deal this summer.
Chelsea saw a £10million bid turned down earlier this month, but they remain interested and could work towards a compromise with the Serie A outfit.
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