Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca will look to bolster his squad over the summer to try and launch a challenge for major trophies in 2025/26.
The Blues enjoyed a strong start to Maresca’s debut campaign, but early exits from the EFL Cup and FA Cup mean the Conference League is now their only trophy option in 2025.
The race is on to secure UEFA Champions League qualification for next season with fifth place in the Premier League potentially eligible for a UCL spot.
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Which European competition Chelsea are involved in next season will dictate both their finances and Maresca’s ability to attract star names to Stamford Bridge.
The former Leicester City head coach has drawn up a list of targets, and he is expected to follow a recent pattern of signing young players eager to show their talent on the big stage – as shown by Cole Palmer’s superb rise.
One name that remains on Maresca’s agenda is Deportivo la Coruna star Yeremay Hernandez after missing out on the Spain U21 international in January.
Yeremay Hernandez’s Deportivo contract, transfer value
Hernandez has been scouted by Chelsea across the last 12 months with Deportivo aware of their ongoing interest.
Chelsea reportedly saw a €15m [$16.2m] offer rejected for the 22-year-old winger in the winter transfer window with Deportivo determined to secure his full €20m [$21.7m] release clause.
Hernandez was also unsure over a mid-season move as he wanted to stick by Deportivo at least until the end of the campaign.
⚪️🔵🤝🏻 Yeremay stays at Depor, decision made by the president as revealed earlier today.
Club expected to confirm their decision. https://t.co/dS9A8Gj3KT
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 23, 2025
Nine league goals and four assists in Spain’s Segunda Division [second tier] is powering their push for promotion back to La Liga next season, but if they miss out on a playoff place, Chelsea’s next offer will be considered – as per Diario AS.
Chelsea are open to meeting his clause, but they could drive it down if promotion is missed, with Deportivo realistic on their prospects of retaining Hernandez outside of La Liga.
