Chelsea transfer news: Mauricio Pochettino's side have handed a huge incentive to beat Manchester City to the signing of Jeremy Doku
Chelsea's spending in the summer transfer window isn't expected to stop anytime soon, with a new attack-minded player next on Mauricio Pochettino's list.
In the past week, the Blues have invested heavily in their midfield with the British record signing of Moises Caicedo and £58million arrival of Romeo Lavia from Southampton. The double arrival has elevated Todd Boehly's spending to over £300million, adding to the early arrivals of Christopher Nkunku, Axel Disasi, Nicolas Jackson, Robert Sanchez and a handful of youngsters.
However, with under two weeks of the transfer window remaining, more business is likely to be completed and the next target seems to have already been identified. Rennes winger Jeremy Doku is said to be on the club's radar after catching the eye of some of Europe's top teams after his performances in France.
Premier League champions Manchester City are understood to be leading the race for the Belgium international, with Pep Guardiola keen to replace Riyad Mahrez following his move to Saudi Arabi. Reports in France have added that Rennes would allow Doku to leave for around €60million (£54.1m), with more value added to his price tag after his goal on the opening weekend of the season.
And if the Blues needed any convincing to meet Rennes' price tag, Kylian Mbappe has previously gone on record to admit his admiration of the forward. The Paris Saint-Germain striker revealed in 2021 that the Chelsea target had something special following a private chat with his father.
“Recently, I was speaking with my father about a player who impressed me because of his speed qualities, that is Doku, at Rennes,” Mbappe said.
“In five years as a professional, I have never seen someone from a standing start demonstrate so much power.”
Doku has settled into life in France rather comfortably after signing from Anderlecht. He featured 29 times in Ligue 1 last season, directly contributing towards eight goals. His performances and Eden Hazard-like style of play has resulted in him becoming one of the most in-demand wingers in Europe.