Best signing since Palmer: Chelsea make big offer for "world-class" gem

Cole Palmer will go down as one of Chelsea’s best signings in the modern day, impressing beyond all imagination after his £40m move from fellow Premier League side Manchester City in 2023.

Not many people knew what to expect from the young attacker, but it’s safe to say he’s demonstrated his quality at the top level over the last couple of seasons.

The 22-year-old has registered 62 combined goals and assists in his 84 appearances for the Blues, with one of his best showings coming against Brighton earlier this campaign, notching four goals in the first 45 minutes.

Whilst the England international has gone 16 games without a goal, his early-season form has put Enzo Maresca’s side in a great position to secure Champions League football – highlighting how much of an impressive addition he’s been.

However, if he is to return to the heights he’s previously showcased, the hierarchy may look to delve into the market to strengthen the side in key areas of the pitch.

An update on Chelsea’s hunt for new additions this summer

There’s no denying that a striker has been at the top of Maresca’s shopping list since his appointment in the summer of 2024, but as of yet, he’s been unable to land the talisman he craves.

In recent days, Liam Delap has once again been mentioned as a possible target this summer, potentially linking back up with the Italian after their time together at the Etihad.

The 22-year-old has scored 12 times for relegation-threatened Ipswich Town this campaign, looking set to depart at the end of the season regardless, with his £30m relegation release clause in his contract.

However, despite their ambition to strengthen in forward areas, moves have also been made in the defensive area with a deal for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, who currently has a £50m clause in his own deal.

According to one Spanish outlet, the Blues have made a huge financial offer to the player to convince him to move to Stamford Bridge – now leading the race for his signature this summer.

Why Huijsen would be Chelsea’s best signing since Palmer

There’s no denying that Palmer has been a sensational addition to the football club, undoubtedly now worth millions more than the figure forked out for his signature.

If they are to secure a place in the Champions League ahead of next season, Maresca will need his star player to recapture his best form in the coming weeks to help get the side over the line.

Regardless of the situation they find themselves in 2025/26, additions will be needed in key areas of the pitch, none more so than the backline, to bolster their chances of going one step further.

Huijsen could provide just that should he move to West London in the coming months, being the young star to lead the backline for many years to come – something which has been desperately needed in recent seasons.

At just 19, he has the potential to be a leading star for the club for at least the next decade, but his immediate impact could be one that could catapult the side to success next campaign.

When delving into his stats from 2024/25, he’s showcased how impressive he’s been for the Cherries, undoubtedly being the key player and one of the missing pieces in Maresca’s puzzle.

Huijsen, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has won 70% of the tackles he’s entered, along with 2.7 aerials won per 90 – highlighting his ability in defensive areas, something which the side have lacked given their tally of 40 goals conceded.

He’s also starred in possession, completing 85% of the passes he’s attempted, whilst also completing 4.9 long balls per 90, potentially handing Palmer the opportunity to recapture his best form.

Such impressive young talents like the Spaniard don’t come around very often, with the hierarchy needing to work tirelessly if they are to secure his signature.

Any move for him would massively bolster the backline, potentially being one of the most important additions they can make this summer to give themselves the platform to succeed in 2025/26.

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