Chelsea offer £21m striker a 6-year contract, agreement "just a matter of time"

 Chelsea chiefs have now offered a pacey striker personal terms to join the Blues, with an agreement described as just a "matter of time".

Chelsea set for UEFA Conference League final

After qualifying for the Champions League and confirming an almighty boost for Chelsea ahead of next season, Enzo Maresca can also sign off his debut season in the dugout with a piece of major silverware.

The Italian, bullish in his post-match press conference after their vital 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Sunday, told critics to 'eff off' after Chelsea sealed fourth spot and a place in Europe's most prestigious competition for 2025/2026.

Despite their excellent finish to the Premier League season, with Chelsea briefly contending for the title at one early stage and winning six out of their final eight top-flight games to confirm a top five place, it hasn't been an easy campaign for Maresca overall.

Some tepid performances and results threatened Chelsea's chase for Europe, with Maresca's side suffering a damp patch of form soon after the turn of 2025. This prompted some supporters to turn on the ex-Leicester City boss, which in-turn caused concern from critics.

“When the fans turn on the manager, it’s never a good sign and it’s something the board will have taken note of, I’m sure," said ex-Premier League scout Mick Brown to Football Insider back in April.

“They’ve got the core of what could be a very good squad with a little bit of work and improvement. I expect he will be backed in the summer because everything you hear from Chelsea is that the board are going to stick by him.

“But as I said, when the fans start to turn, it’s never a good sign and questions will be asked.”

While it hasn't been plain sailing for Maresca, Chelsea can end 2024/25 with the knowledge of Champions League football, and if they beat Real Betis on Wednesday evening, the Stamford Bridge side will also have a trophy to show for their efforts.

BlueCo also have every intention of backing Maresca in the transfer market, and are reportedly turning their attention to sister club Strasbourg in pursuit of a rising star.

Chelsea offer Strasbourg striker Emanuel Emegha a six-year contract

Reports in France previously stated that Emanuel Emegha was attracting serious interest from Chelsea, and talks had been held with the 22-year-old's representatives (Foot Mercato).

Now, journalist Santi Aouna has shared an update on the matter via X, claiming that Chelsea have offered Emegha a six-year deal and an agreement is inevitable.

The 6 foot 5 Dutchman has been ranked as the fastest player in Ligue 1 this season, which showcases his serious explosiveness and power as a forward player, and Emegha is said to be valued at £21 million.

This could end up being an astute pre-contract deal for 2026 and an ideal signing for the future, especially considering that he ended this season as one of the French top flight's top scorers with 14.