Revealed: The 'mystery player' Chelsea actually tried to sign on deadline day

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Chelsea explored a move for Fulham midfielder Sander Berge in the closing stages of the summer transfer window, according to BBC Sport.

The Blues were pushing to sign a central midfielder to replace Enzo Fernandez ahead of his €145million (£125m) move to Manchester City.

Chelsea came close to landing Lamine Camara from Monaco, only for the Ligue 1 club to abort the proposed transfer on deadline day.

And now BBC Sport reporter Sami Mokbel claims Chelsea showed late interest in acquiring Berge from Premier League counterparts Fulham.

However, it is understood Chelsea did not make a formal offer for the Norway international, who Fulham were desperate to keep hold of.

The news comes after The Telegraph’s Matt Law claimed Chelsea were chasing a “mystery player” from the Premier League on deadline day.

Transfer insider El Bobble understood that player was James Garner, though Everton manager David Moyes has since rubbished the speculation.

And so it is possible that Berge, 28, was the unnamed player pursed by Chelsea, who ended up missing out on signing a midfielder.

The west London club targeted players with Premier League experience this summer, such as Morgan Rogers, Maxence Lacroix, Emiliano Martinez, Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson.

Chelsea retain interest in Bournemouth star Scott

Xabi Alonso’s side also held an interest in signing Alex Scott and Manu Kone, though both Bournemouth and Roma were reluctant to sell.

BBC Sport’s Mokbel understands Chelsea remain sweet on Scott and are likely to prioritise signing a new midfielder in the January transfer window.

Scott is fast developing a reputation as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League with Bournemouth, with whom he has scored one goal so far this season.

The 23-year-old played a key role in helping the Cherries finish sixth in 2025-26, qualifying for the Europa League for the first time in their history.

Chelsea finished Sunday’s 2-1 loss at Arsenal with defenders Reece James and Malo Gusto in midfield - such is their need to strengthen in that area of the pitch.

Chelsea are hoping star midfielder Moises Caicedo will be fit to face in-form Hull City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon.

The tough-tackling 24-year-old, regarded as one of the best holding midfielders in the world, missed the game against Arsenal through injury.