Chelsea latest: German wonderkid identified as star opens up on Blues interest

All the latest news from Stamford Bridge after the Blues returned to Champions League action

Chelsea are making steady progress in the Premier League this season, moving up to second place.

The Blues resumed their domestic campaign with a 2-0 victory over Burnley away from home at the weekend, before taking on Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Balancing their focus between the Premier League and Europe, Enzo Maresca has been handed a challenging task with key player Cole Palmer still sidelined due to injury. The Chelsea star suffered an unfortunate setback with a fractured toe, delaying his return to the squad.

Despite this, the Blues have been managing well without him in midfield, securing three victories in their last four matches across all competitions. Here, Football London provides all the latest updates from Stamford Bridge.

Bundesliga prodigy on Blues' radar

Chelsea are planning further transfer activity as they keep tabs on RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouédraogo. Sky Sports Germany reports that the Blues are among several top clubs showing interest in the 19-year-old, including Premier League rivals Manchester United.

Ouédraogo has notched three goals and as many assists for Leipzig this season, but it was during the international break that he really made headlines. The teenager scored less than two minutes into his senior debut for Germany in their 6-0 triumph over Slovakia.

The report indicates that the midfielder lacks a release clause in his deal, meaning only substantial bids will be entertained by the German outfit. Ouédraogo remains focused on securing a spot in next year's World Cup squad for his nation and helping his current club reach the Champions League.

Winger opens up on Chelsea snub

The Blues could have fielded an opposing player during Tuesday evening's clash had they managed to persuade Raphinha to swap Leeds United for Stamford Bridge rather than Barcelona. Back in 2022, whilst the Brazilian was still plying his trade at Elland Road, the west London side were keen on securing his signature.

Reports at the time suggested Leeds and Chelsea had reached an agreement over Raphinha, but the now-28-year-old opted for a move to Catalonia instead. Prior to the two sides meeting in the Champions League, the winger addressed his potential switch to the Blues three years prior.

Speaking to AS Diario, he said: "Ever since I played my last game for Leeds, I knew of Chelsea's interest. But I had a dream and I did everything I could to play for Barca.

"I only had one dream, which was to play for Barca. I trusted in them and here I am wearing Barça's colours."