Chelsea's summer transfer plans continue to take shape under Xabi Alonso, with the Blues expected to be one of the busiest clubs in the market in the coming weeks.
A number of names have already been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge as the club look to strengthen their first team and their impressive pool of young talent.
One of the most important stories involves Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar.
Reports in Italy claim that Chelsea have seen a £43 million bid rejected by the Serie A side as they continue to look for a long-term solution between the vacancies.
Meanwhile, Wigan Athletic youngster Harrison Bettoni has also emerged as a target, and Chelsea are understood to be competing with Man City and AC Milan to sign the attacking midfielder.
Elsewhere, the Blues have been linked with AIK wonderkid Zadok Yohanna.
Chelsea bid for 'special' Roma star to satisfy 'unhappy' Xabi Alonso
Their new manager seems to be unhappy with the current squad.
Recent reports from Sky Germany suggest that Chelsea have entered the race for the highly regarded youngster despite strong interest from Newcastle and Brighton.
The club's recruitment strategy under current ownership has focused on acquiring high-quality prospects before their value increases too much, and that approach looks set to change under Alonso.
Another exciting youngster has appeared on Chelsea's radar.
He said El Mala's mother wants him to join Chelsea instead of Brighton
According to German reports from Sport Bild, relayed by Sport Witness, Chelsea are showing interest in FC Köln attacker Said El Mala.
The report claims that El Mala's mother, who also acts as his agent, wants Chelsea to win the race if the London club decide to go ahead with the move.
The main reason for that confidence seems to be Chelsea's financial promise.
According to the report, the Blues have informed the player's representatives that they can bypass Brighton if they choose to enter into substantive negotiations.
That situation has reportedly encouraged El Mala's camp to remain patient rather than rush to make a deal elsewhere.
Brighton remained firmly in the picture, however.
Fabian Hurzeler's club have built a strong reputation for identifying and developing young talent, making them an attractive destination for emerging players across Europe.
The Seagulls' history of offering opportunities to promising youngsters has seen them compete with wealthier teams for several years.
However, Chelsea's involvement naturally changes the landscape.
The London club have invested heavily in youth recruitment from 2022 and continue to target players with long-term potential. El Mala seems to fit that profile perfectly.
Able to operate across the front line, he is considered one of the most exciting prospects from German football.
A recent report suggests his camp believe Chelsea could finally make a more drastic move, but that doesn't mean a transfer is imminent.
Sports Witness notes that the situation is still in flux, Brighton is still working on its own and no final decision has been taken.
It is also believed that the 19-year-old commands a price tag of around £43m, and as things stand, Chelsea do not want to pay the full price due to what Sports Bild describes as financial concerns.
However, the fact that El Mala's representatives seem willing to wait for Chelsea could prove crucial if the Blues decide to accelerate their interest.
For Chelsea, it would be another example of a transfer strategy firmly focused on the future.
Alonso may be overseeing plans for immediate success at Stamford Bridge, but the club's recruitment department continues to look ahead for several years.
And since El Mala's mother's agent seems to favor Chelsea, the Blues may have a significant advantage in the transfer battle.
Chelsea battle Newcastle to sign player, Magpies make 'highest' offer
West Londoners have entered the race.
