Chelsea It has been home to many midfield talents over the years, many of whom have captured the hearts of the fanbase and led them to success over different periods of time.
Frank Lampard will remain one of the club's most, if not the most, iconic players, producing countless moments of magic during his time as a player at Stamford Bridge.
English He scored 211 goals for the Bluesstill holds the record to this day for the most goals scored by a player in the club's history – showing just how important he was during his time in west London.
Fast forward to 2025, Enzo Maresca He has a host of talented players on his hands, which will help in the Italian's attempt to secure a top-four finish during his opening season Premier League Drive on top.
As a result, he has been targeting reinforcements in the January transfer window, including one player who could return to England in the coming weeks.
Chelsea is looking for a star midfielder
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano. Chelsea have made contact with Juventus To ask about a possible loan move for the midfielder Douglas Louise.
The Brazilian joined the Italian League team only in the summer, Joining in a deal worth £42 million From Aston Villa, but it is a move that has not yet been planned by either party.
that it He only appeared in 12 league matchesOnly three of them started, for former club Manchester City and surprise hit Nottingham Forest Also in the race for his signature.
However, Romano confirmed that the Italian team is reluctant to do so Allow him to leave temporarily After his transfer just a few months ago from Unai Emery's team.
While a deal may seem difficult given interest from elsewhere, he would be a great addition to Maresca's squad, and undoubtedly proves a better option than another player linked with a move to the Bridge.
Why would a Luiz signing be better than Maino for Chelsea?
In recent weeks, the Manchester United star Kobe Maino He was Regularly prescribed with this step to join the Blues after being assured they would accept a reasonable offer for his services to meet the division's PSR rules.
No offer has been made to sign the 19-year-old yet, but the Red Devils youngster is a name that simply won't go away, leaving the door open for a late move before the end of the window.
It is unclear how much Ruben Amorim's side will ask to part ways with this month's Star Academy graduate, but it is clear that he will provide quality in midfield – helping secure a top-four finish.
However, a Luiz move would certainly be a better option, as he has that experience at the top level of the English game to make a serious impact on the Bridge to help Maresca in his quest.
When comparing their numbers from the current season, the Juve star has produced several impressive statistics, many of which completely blow Maino out of the water, showing why he is the Blues' top option.
Louise, who was nicknamed “by”One of the best in the worldIn the midfield position by a Sky Italia journalist, he has completed more attempted passes this season, while also Create more opportunities for every 90Highlighting his ability to create opportunities for his teammates.
How does Luiz compare to Maino in 2024/25 so far |
||
---|---|---|
Statistics (per 90) |
Louise |
Maino |
Games played |
12 |
16 |
Minutes played |
414 |
1211 |
Passing accuracy |
91% |
87% |
Created opportunities |
2.6 |
0.9 |
Successful dribbles |
2 |
1.5 |
Dribbling success rate |
82% |
51% |
Duels won |
56% |
48% |
Antennas won |
57% |
43% |
Statistics via Footmob |
However, the Brazilian has been impressive defensively, winning more of his ground and aerial duels than Maino, making him the ideal option at the heart of Maresca's side should he move on.
Given interest from other Premier League clubs, the Blues may face stiff competition for the former Villa player's signature, but it is a signing that would significantly improve their chances in Champions League football.
He has the chance to make himself a fan favorite if he makes the move, providing the quality and extra dimension that has often been missing in recent poor form.