Chelsea keeping tabs on Germany-based Onyeka as potential January signing

Chelsea's Enzo Maresca against West Ham | Imago

Chelsea keeping tabs on Germany-based Onyeka as potential January signing

Ayoola Kelechi 22:32 - 26.09.2024

The midfielder has been making waves with his performances in Germany and could be set for a move to Chelsea soon

Premier League giants Chelsea have their eyes on Bayer Leverkusen’s 17-year-old starlet, Francis Ikechukwu Onyeka, as they look to add to their growing number of youngsters.

Maresca and Chelsea impressed by Onyeka

According to recent reports, the Premier League giants are closely monitoring the Nigerian-born midfielder, who has been turning heads in Germany with his impressive performances for the reigning Bundesliga Champions’ Under-19 team.

Bayer Leverkusen's Francis Onyeka | Imago
Bayer Leverkusen's Francis Onyeka | Imago

Onyeka's versatility has been touted as one of his main strengths, as he can play as a central attacking midfielder, central midfielder, or even on the left wing.

The young maestro is also renowned for his passing ability, remarkable vision, and excellent link-up play, in midfield, making him one of the most wanted youngsters in youth football at the moment.

Francis Onyeka playing for Bayer Leverkusen's U-19 team last season | Imago
Francis Onyeka playing for Bayer Leverkusen's U-19 team last season | Imago Francis Onyeka playing for Bayer Leverkusen's U-19 team last season | Imago

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has reportedly been a fan since his Leicester City days and even sent scouts from the Foxes to keep tabs on the Bayer Leverkusen teenager.

Chelsea face tough competition to sign Onyeka

Despite not playing for the Bayer Leverkusen first-team yet, Onyeka’s reputation is already sky-high in Germany, with multiple clubs interested in the young midfielder.

Francis Onyeka was in the Bayer Leverkusen squad for two Bundesliga games last season | Imago
Francis Onyeka was in the Bayer Leverkusen squad for two Bundesliga games last season | Imago

While Chelsea are keen to bring Onyeka to Stamford Bridge, they face stiff competition from Premier League rivals Tottenham, who are also aware of Onyeka’s talents and are keeping an eye on the youngster.

The Blues also face a challenge to convince Bayer Leverkusen to let the 17-year-old go easily, and they might need another large financial commitment to sway the Bundesliga side’s commitment to keeping their future star.

Francis Onyeka playing for Germany's U17 team | Imago
Francis Onyeka playing for Germany's U17 team | Imago Francis Onyeka playing for Germany's U17 team | Imago

However, if they succeed, Chelsea will be bringing in a versatile, talented midfielder with the potential to become one of the best players in the Premier League in the near future.