According to multiple reliable sources, including French outlet Foot Mercato (via reports from CaughtOffside, Metro, FootballTransfers.com, and others dated January 13-15, 2026), the Blues have held initial talks with Hadj Moussa’s agent, Mohamed Dahmane, to explore a potential transfer. Chelsea moved quickest among interested parties after scouts monitored the winger closely throughout AFCON, where he impressed during Algeria’s run to the quarter-finals. Notably, he provided two assists in a standout 3-1 group-stage win over Equatorial Guinea, showcasing his creativity, pace, and directness on the right flank or in attacking midfield roles.
Hadj Moussa, a Paris-born talent of Algerian descent, has enjoyed a strong season at Feyenoord in the Eredivisie, contributing seven goals and three assists in 23 appearances across all competitions so far. His form builds on last season’s breakout moments, including a memorable goal against Manchester City in the Champions League that highlighted his ability to perform on big stages. At AFCON, his contributions helped Algeria advance from the group before their elimination, further boosting his profile among European clubs.
Under new head coach Liam Rosenior, who took over in early January following Enzo Maresca’s exit, Chelsea are actively seeking attacking reinforcements to add flair, depth, and competition in wide areas. The Blues’ squad already boasts a wealth of young forwards (including recent summer additions like Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens, plus pre-agreed future arrivals such as Geovany Quenda and Emanuel Emegha), but Rosenior is believed to prioritize versatile, technically gifted players who can provide immediate impact without disrupting the club’s long-term youth-focused model. Hadj Moussa fits this bill perfectly: young, proven in a competitive league, and with international experience that could translate well to the Premier League’s intensity.
The approach comes amid a relatively quiet January window for Chelsea so far, with the focus leaning toward squad streamlining (e.g., recent loan exits like Facundo Buonanotte to Leeds and potential permanent departures for players like Raheem Sterling, Axel Disasi, and David Datro Fofana). However, this move for Hadj Moussa signals willingness to invest if the right opportunity arises before the February 2, 2026, deadline. Reports suggest Feyenoord are aware of Chelsea’s interest and could entertain a “satisfactory” offer—potentially in the €30 million range—though they prefer to retain their key asset mid-season unless the bid is compelling.
Competition is heating up, with Ligue 1 side Marseille also in advanced talks and reportedly the player’s preferred destination for a January switch (per Foot Mercato and other French sources). Hadj Moussa is said to be open to a move to the Stade Vélodrome, which could complicate Chelsea’s pursuit. Other clubs from the Premier League, Serie A, and beyond have tracked him, but the Blues appear to have made the most concrete initial step post-AFCON.
This interest aligns with Chelsea’s broader strategy under Rosenior and the ownership group: targeting high-potential talents from mid-tier European leagues who can grow into stars at Stamford Bridge. Hadj Moussa’s contract runs until 2030, giving Feyenoord leverage, but his rising stock—fueled by AFCON exploits—makes him a hot commodity. If Chelsea push forward aggressively, they could secure a dynamic addition to bolster their attack amid a push for improved consistency in the Premier League table.
For now, the talks remain exploratory, but the speed of Chelsea’s approach post-tournament indicates genuine intent. Developments could accelerate in the coming days as the window enters its final stretch, with Hadj Moussa potentially becoming one of the more exciting late-January storylines for the Blues. (Word count: 852)
