Chelsea are reportedly weighing up a move to sign Bayer Leverkusen youngster Kerim Alajbegovic, according to The Athletic.
The Blues already revamped their left flank last summer by signing Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United and Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund.
However, Garnacho endured a difficult debut season at Stamford Bridge, scoring only twice in 33 appearances across the Premier League and Champions League combined.
Gittens also struggled to make an impact, with fitness problems limiting him to just eight starts across the Premier League and Champions League last campaign.
Chelsea are now reportedly open to cashing in on Garnacho, with the Argentine heavily linked with a move to Aston Villa this summer.
The West London club have already strengthened their attacking options by signing Morgan Rogers for a substantial £117m fee.
Despite that major outlay, The Athletic report that Chelsea have been monitoring Alajbegovic closely and are interested in adding the teenager to their ranks.
The Blues’ pursuit of a new left-winger is understood to be dependent on further outgoings before any concrete move is made.
Alajbegovic, who is 18 years old, joined Red Bull Salzburg from Leverkusen last summer and delivered an impressive debut campaign, scoring 13 goals and registering four assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.
Bayer Leverkusen were sufficiently impressed to re-sign the youngster this year, and his current contract runs until 2031, with Transfermarkt valuing him at around £19m.
That valuation places Leverkusen in a strong negotiating position, and the German club are expected to demand a sizeable transfer fee should they be forced to sell.
Alajbegovic is predominantly a left-winger but is also comfortable operating on the opposite flank, and he can provide cover in a central attacking role if required.
The teenager is known for his pace, technical ability, skill in tight areas, and his knack for scoring goals from distance, making him an exciting prospect at the top level.
Standing at 6ft 1in tall, Alajbegovic brings a physical presence that is uncommon for a player of his age and profile on the wing.
Whether Chelsea formalise their interest into a firm offer during this window remains to be seen, with the club’s transfer activity in this area hinging on outgoings in the coming weeks.