Aleksandar Stankovic of Club Brugge. (Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Chelsea were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw by Leeds United in midweek, surrendering a two-goal advantage and dropping valuable points in the race for a top-four finish.
It was a rare stumble under Liam Rosenior, whose start to life at Stamford Bridge has otherwise been hugely impressive.
The Blues boss has won six of his seven Premier League matches in charge, quickly restoring belief and momentum around the squad. While the Leeds result may feel like an opportunity missed, it does little to overshadow what has been a strong opening chapter to his tenure.
Behind the scenes, however, planning for next season is already underway — and Chelsea have reportedly identified a highly-rated young midfielder as a potential summer addition.
Chelsea Monitoring Stankovic
Chelsea have entered the frame in the race to sign Club Brugge midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic, according to reports in Italy.
Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, claim the Blues are “keeping tabs” on the 20-year-old Serbia international, who has impressed since leaving Inter Milan last summer. Arsenal, Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund are also said to be monitoring his development.
Stankovic — previously labelled “fantastic” by former Inter teammate Federico Dimarco — has enhanced his reputation in Belgium with a string of mature midfield displays that have caught the attention of several European heavyweights.
Despite selling him for just €9.5 million, Inter inserted a buyback clause into the deal and are now expected to activate it. The Nerazzurri would need to pay around €23 million to re-sign the midfielder, effectively shutting the door on rival clubs before negotiations can escalate.
That said, Chelsea and Arsenal are understood to be watching the situation closely in case circumstances change. Should Inter hesitate or complications arise, Premier League interest could quickly intensify.
Stankovic appears destined for a return to San Siro for now, but Chelsea’s interest highlights their ongoing focus on emerging European talent. With Rosenior eager to build depth and long-term quality in midfield, the Blues are positioning themselves strategically — ready to move should even the slightest opportunity arise.
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