Moises Caicedo joined Chelsea from Brighton in 2023, and since then he has lived up to his £115 million price tag. After joining Chelsea, Caicedo has intercepted more balls than any other Chelsea player. The Ecuadorian star has been bossing Chelsea’s midfield for three seasons now. Maresca is very satisfied with the performances of the former Brighton player, but Chelsea’s management may have found a younger version of the next Moises Caicedo. Chelsea have identified Ayyoub Bouaddi as their next transfer target. The Blues are expected to send a deal to Lille in the January transfer window.
The Blues search for a Caicedo type profile to strengthen midfield
Caicedo joined Chelsea from Brighton for a record fee of €115 million. Since then, the Ecuadorian has done a wonderful job at Stamford Bridge and has become one of Maresca’s key players. Although Maresca and the Blues’ management are very happy with the midfielder’s performances, Chelsea’s management are looking to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi. Chelsea’s new midfield target is an 18-year-old French midfielder. He plays for Lille and is undoubtedly one of their best players. Bouaddi has been a key player under Bruno Génésio. Bouaddi’s exceptional ball control and composure make him a very unique player. His presence on the pitch has had a huge impact on Lille’s recent success. Lille currently sit fourth in Ligue 1 and are one of the favourites to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Bouaddi has the ability to play both central and defensive roles, giving Maresca much-needed options in midfield. His special abilities make his playing style similar to Moises Caicedo. He may not perform like the Ecuadorian right away, but if his development goes well, he could soon become the next “Moises Caicedo.”
Rivals emerge as Chelsea monitor the “next Caicedo”
Maresca and Chelsea’s management are looking to secure their new signing, but their plans could face complications as other clubs are also monitoring the French U21 international. Premier League clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool have joined the race to sign him. Outside the Premier League, 15-time UCL winners Real Madrid and current Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain are also preparing their moves for the midfielder. These clubs have been impressed by the maturity shown by the French player. According to FBref, he ranks in the top one percent of midfielders in terms of blocks, the top two percent in long passes, and the top eight percent in take-ons. Chelsea face tough competition in the upcoming transfer window, with several clubs eager to sign their target. According to a report Real Madrid’s president Perez reportedly said he will do anything to bring him to Santiago Bernabeu. It will be interesting to see which club the French midfielder chooses.
Stamford Bridge’s reaction
Chelsea fans are excited to hear the latest news about their club. The fans believe the “next Moises Caicedo” will live up to their expectations just like the real Caicedo did. They cannot wait to see how he adjusts in midfield alongside players like Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernández, and Moises Caicedo. Social media is full of debates and highlights of Ayyoub Bouaddi. Overall, the fans expect to see a bright start from their possible winter signing.
Author’s insight
From the author’s point of view, Ayyoub Bouaddi has a big decision to make as many big clubs are keen to sign him. Currently, Chelsea are leading the race to sign him, as Maresca dreams of managing the midfielder.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
