Chelsea contact striker who could have revitalising abilities as Arsenal make rival plan

Chelsea are in touch with Arsenal youth striker Khayon Edwards in case they can sign him in the summer, a report has revealed.

Khayon Edwards currently plays mainly for the Arsenal under-18s team. He has 16 goals from 16 games at that level this season. As such, Arsenal want to reward him with his first professional contract.

He could therefore follow in the footsteps of Bukayo Saka and Folarin Balogun, both of whom have the same agent.

However, Chelsea are putting the groundworks in place to prevent that happening, according to Goal. It is claimed that they are in contact over a possible summer move.

Any such business will depend on whether a takeover of the club can go through in time. But if so, Chelsea will try to strengthen at all levels.

Their academy has had a lot of success in recent years, but this season their under-23 side is in danger of relegation from Premier League 2. If they can bolster the ranks to do better next season, they will.

Much of their strategy will revolve around finding British youngsters to join their academy sides. And they may not have to look too far away from the capital.

Within those plans, they are aiming to accommodate Edwards. It is believed he is a childhood fan of the club, but his decision will be based on his development, rather than any such loyalties.

Still, Chelsea would be hoping to make an appealing pitch to him. Alternatively, three rival suitors are mentioned: Leeds United, Southampton and Brighton & Hove Albion.

In addition, there is interest from the German Bundesliga.

Any of them would only have to pay compensation, rather than a transfer fee, to take Edwards in the summer. That is, unless Arsenal can convince the 18-year-old to commit to professional terms with them.

C