After Liverpool swooped in to sign highly-rated academy prospect Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea last year, reports now suggest the Blues could be plotting a form of transfer payback.
Chelsea Reportedly Targeting Two Liverpool Stars
While many players have represented both clubs—such as Fernando Torres, Joe Cole, Daniel Sturridge, Bolo Zenden, and Raul Meireles—direct transfers between Anfield and Stamford Bridge have been rare in recent years.
However, recent rumors indicate Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is eyeing a double raid on the Premier League leaders.
According to Antena2 [via CaughtOffside], Chelsea are considering an ambitious move for Luis Díaz, capitalizing on reported concerns over his wages at Liverpool. The Blues are said to be willing to make him one of their highest-paid players.
Meanwhile, TBR Football relayed information from Graeme Bailey suggesting Chelsea also have a strong interest in Caoimhin Kelleher, as they seek to strengthen their goalkeeping options amid doubts over Robert Sánchez.
How Likely Are Chelsea to Sign Kelleher and Díaz?
Whether Liverpool would be willing to negotiate with Chelsea remains uncertain, given the history between the clubs. While they may not be direct competitors in the title race at the moment, past encounters have created a tense rivalry.
Kelleher seems the more likely departure, as the 26-year-old has impressed in his 16 appearances this season, particularly during Alisson Becker’s injury absence.
Despite proving himself at Premier League and Champions League level, he remains second choice, and a summer move could be on the cards.
However, Chelsea’s chances of signing Díaz appear slim. The Colombian has been in excellent form under Arne Slot, scoring 12 goals in 32 games this season.
With more than two years left on his contract, Liverpool are in a strong position to keep him and could even offer an improved deal to avoid a situation similar to the contract uncertainty surrounding Mo Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk.
While Chelsea may have a realistic shot at securing Kelleher, prying Díaz away from Anfield seems highly unlikely in the near future.
