Chelsea have reportedly begun laying the groundwork for a potential January swoop for highly-rated Marseille teenager Darryl Bakola, a player who is also firmly on the radar of Premier League rivals Arsenal.
Chelsea's Youth-Focused Transfer Strategy Continues
The Blues' aggressive, youth-oriented recruitment drive under owner Todd Boehly shows no sign of slowing. Following a summer where the club invested a staggering £285 million on new signings like Liam Delap and Alejandro Garnacho, attention has now shifted to the winter market. While established names such as Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo and Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo are of interest, Chelsea's scouting network continues to identify younger talents across Europe.
According to reports from French outlet Foot Mercato, 18-year-old attacking midfielder Darryl Bakola is the latest prodigy to attract Chelsea's interest. The club is said to be "making moves behind the scenes" for the France Under-20 international and is even considering a plan to sign him before loaning him to sister club Strasbourg for development.
Contract Standoff Puts European Clubs on Alert
The situation at Marseille is creating an opportunity for suitors. Bakola's current deal at the Stade Velodrome runs until June 2027, and the club have tabled a "concrete contract extension offer." However, the youngster is hesitating over committing his future, prompting concern from his current employers.
Marseille, scarred by past departures of academy stars on free transfers, have made resolving Bakola's situation a "top priority" before the year ends. Should an agreement remain elusive, a January sale is considered a real possibility to avoid losing him for a reduced fee later.
Chelsea and Arsenal are not alone in their admiration. The report also notes significant interest from Newcastle United, Borussia Dortmund, and Stuttgart, setting the stage for a potential multi-club tussle for his signature.
Bakola's Breakout Moment on the Biggest Stage
The teenager has made eight senior appearances this season, but it was his performance in the UEFA Champions League that truly announced his potential. Last month, Bakola shone in Marseille's 2-1 victory over Newcastle United, earning high praise from his manager, Roberto De Zerbi.
"I asked him to play as if he were at the park with his friends," De Zerbi revealed after the match. "His personality and courage impressed me. Sometimes you have to take risks. It was a risk to play him tonight." The Italian coach also credited the Marseille supporters for helping the youngster through his debut, stating the Velodrome is a "generous stadium for academy youngsters."
This coming-of-age display on European football's premier stage has undoubtedly intensified the scrutiny from England's top clubs, with Chelsea now appearing to take the most concrete initial steps to secure his services.
