Chelsea have been dealt a blow after Everton midfielder Amadou Onana rejected the club’s initial approach for his services.
The Blues have spent over £420million across two transfer windows this season following a a summer takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. They are not done yet, though, and want to sign a midfielder before the January deadline on Tuesday.
Chelsea are interested in Moises Caicedo, but have been put off by Brighton’s reluctance to sell. They have not completely given up hope of landing the Ecuador international, but are looking at other possible options too.
One of those identified is Onana, however Chelsea have now had an initial approach turned down by the player. They could yet return and try to persuade him after further talks, but Everton are reluctant to sell anyway.
The crisis-stricken Toffees - currently without a manager after sacking Frank Lampard earlier this week - are more likely to sanction the sale of winger Anthony Gordon, who has missed training for the third day in a row, to Newcastle.
Chelsea are looking at other midfield targets in addition to Onana, including Matheus Nunes of Wolves.
