Chelsea reportedly showed interest in Lois Openda as a potential new number nine this summer.

Loïs Openda's exceptional form has caught the attention of financially strong clubs. Chelsea showed interest in him during the summer, but the Belgian player expressed his desire to stay. RB Leipzig is in a strong negotiating position since Openda does not have a release clause until 2026, at which point a high release option of up to 80 million euros will become available. Leipzig is firm on not negotiating for less than 75 million euros.

Chelsea are considering a move for RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda.

Chelsea believe Openda has the profile that new manager Enzo Maresca needs in attack. Openda's versatility and ability to play in multiple different systems is seen as making him an ideal signing for the Blues. Although he has a release clause worth in the region of €80 million, this will not become active until next summer. Previously, RB Leipzig had pegged his summer value at €100m, although it is not clear whether they may be willing to downgrade this price following the confirmation that Sesko is staying.