Chelsea is reportedly at the forefront of the competition to acquire Borussia Dortmund’s highly sought-after winger, Jamie Gittens, whose asking price has reportedly been halved, according to a German report.
The England Under-21 international has experienced a tumultuous season.
Following a promising start under Nuri Sahin, which included a goal against Real Madrid in the Champions League, Gittens has seen his playing time diminish under the new management of Niko Kovac.
Kovac’s pragmatic approach has led to a tactical shift at Dortmund, transitioning to a back-three formation with two central strikers, effectively eliminating the left wing position where Gittens excels.
This tactical misalignment, coupled with Dortmund’s likely failure to secure a Champions League spot, has reportedly motivated the ambitious forward to seek a transfer this summer.
Several Premier League clubs have expressed interest in the former Manchester City academy player.
Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United have all been linked to Gittens to varying extents, but Chelsea is believed to be the frontrunner for his signature, as indicated by BILD journalist Christian Falk.
Chelsea’s interest in the 20-year-old has been further encouraged by Dortmund’s reduced asking price.
Initially expected to leave for as much as €100 million (£85.7 million)—a figure surpassing those of Jadon Sancho and Erling Haaland—Gittens is now believed to be available for approximately €50 million (£42.9 million).
The Blues are actively seeking to enhance their attacking options.
Enzo Maresca’s team is reportedly aiming to recruit a new winger and central striker this summer.
The uncertain future of Mykhailo Mudryk, following a failed drugs test earlier this season, along with the potential exit of Christopher Nkunku, creates a noticeable void on Chelsea’s left side.
In contrast to Kovac, Maresca is committed to a 4-2-3-1 formation that provides a clear role for Gittens, who would compete with players like Pedro Neto and Sancho, another former Dortmund player, for a starting position.