Transfer Centre

Chelsea 'still interested in signing Marcus Thuram despite Joao Felix arrival'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 12 January 2023

Chelsea 'still interested in signing Thuram despite Felix arrival'

Chelsea remain interested in bringing Borussia Monchengladbach striker Marcus Thuram to Stamford Bridge this month, according to a report.

Chelsea are reportedly still interested in bringing Marcus Thuram to Stamford Bridge this month despite securing the signature of Joao Felix on loan for the rest of the season.

On Wednesday, it was confirmed that Felix had made the move to the Blues from Atletico Madrid, with Graham Potter's side winning the race for his signature.

However, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Felix's move has not changed the club's plans when it comes to Thuram, who remains a target for the Premier League side.

The 25-year-old's contract at Borussia Monchengladbach is due to expire at the end of June, meaning that he is free to hold talks with foreign clubs this month over a move this summer.

Gladbach are also believed to be open to selling Thuram for a cut-price fee during the January window, as they are reluctant to lose him on a free transfer in the middle of 2023.

Borussia Monchengladbach's Marcus Thuram pictured in March 2021 © Reuters

The forward, who represented France at the 2022 World Cup, has scored 13 goals and registered four assists in 17 appearances for his German club during the current season.

Meanwhile, in total, Thuram has managed 41 goals and 26 assists in 119 appearances for Gladbach since making the move from Guingamp in 2019.

Chelsea have struggled in the Premier League this season, with a total of 25 points from 17 matches leaving them down in 10th position in the table.

The Blues have only scored 20 times in England's top flight in 2022-23, with Raheem Sterling and Kai Havertz the joint-leading goalscorers with four each.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang celebrates scoring for Chelsea on October 11, 2022 © Reuters

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has only struck once in the Premier League this season, though, and there is currently speculation surrounding the 33-year-old's future.

Romano has claimed that Barcelona 'would love' to re-sign the former Gabon international this month, with the forward said to be open to a return to Camp Nou.

However, a switch to Xavi's side would allegedly only be possible if Memphis Depay departed, with Atletico Madrid being heavily linked with the Netherlands international.

Man United have also been linked with Thuram this month, but the Red Devils are said to be focusing on bringing in Wout Weghorst on loan from Burnley for the rest of the season.

Aston Villa's Matty Cash, meanwhile, has allegedly emerged as a target for Chelsea this month.