Chelsea could turn to academy midfielder Reggie Watson following the departure of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City.
Fernandez completed a £125 million move to City on deadline day, with the fee matching the British transfer record. The 25-year-old Argentina international signed a five-year contract with the Premier League champions.
Chelsea had attempted to sign Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara as Fernandez’s replacement, but the deal collapsed in the final hours of the transfer window.
Attention could now turn to 16-year-old Watson, who has impressed since stepping up from the academy.
Chelsea confirmed that the central midfielder featured regularly for the Under-18s last season and also made appearances for the Under-21s. He was part of the senior squad during pre-season and started and completed a 90-minute game against Western Sydney Wanderers.
Chelsea’s coaching staff have also praised Watson’s performances in training, suggesting the teenager could receive more opportunities with the first team this season.
