Why Chelsea Are Targeting Jamie Gittens: The Next Star from Manchester City's Youth Academy
Chelsea's pursuit of Jamie Gittens highlights their strategy to sign young talents with Manchester City links, aiming to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.




Jamie Gittens, the young winger currently playing for Borussia Dortmund, has become a prime target for Chelsea as they look to bolster their squad for the upcoming Premier League season. The 20-year-old, who has already made a name for himself in the Bundesliga, is seen as a potential successor to Jadon Sancho, who returned to Manchester United this summer.
Chelsea's Transfer Strategy
Chelsea's manager, Enzo Maresca, has been vocal about the need to add depth to the squad, particularly in the winger position. With Noni Madueke, Pedro Neto, and Tyrique George already in the ranks, Gittens would provide much-needed competition and versatility. The Blues have been exploring various options, but Gittens remains their top choice due to his impressive performances and potential for growth.
Gittens' Journey
Gittens' journey to stardom began at Manchester City's youth academy, where he honed his skills before making the move to Borussia Dortmund in 2020. He made his senior debut two years later and quickly became a key player, scoring eight goals in 32 Bundesliga appearances during the 2024-25 season. His ability to take on defenders one-on-one has drawn comparisons to some of the best in the game, including Jadon Sancho and Erling Haaland.
Why Chelsea Want Him
Chelsea's interest in Gittens is not new. The club has been monitoring his progress for some time, and with the arrival of new manager Niko Kovac at Dortmund, Gittens has fallen out of favor, making a transfer more feasible. Chelsea's recruitment strategy focuses on young, adaptable players with high resale value, and Gittens fits this profile perfectly.
The Manchester City Connection
Gittens would be the latest in a series of signings with strong Manchester City links. Players like Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, and Romeo Lavia have all made the switch from City to Chelsea, and Gittens could join this growing list. His familiarity with the style of play and his relationships with former City staff at Chelsea make him an attractive prospect.
Challenges Ahead
While Gittens has shown immense potential, there are still questions about whether he can live up to the high expectations at Stamford Bridge. His ability to adapt to the Premier League and handle the pressure of playing for a top club will be crucial. However, with the right guidance and support, Gittens could become a key player for Chelsea in the years to come.
Financial Considerations
Chelsea's financial strategy of buying young players on lower wages and spreading payments over long-term contracts has allowed them to assemble a squad worth over £1.4bn. Gittens' arrival would further strengthen their ranks, and with the potential for significant spending flexibility, Chelsea could continue to invest in young talent.
Conclusion
Jamie Gittens represents the future of Chelsea's squad, and his potential signing underscores the club's commitment to building a team capable of competing at the highest level. As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Chelsea can secure the services of this promising young winger.