Chelsea open talks to sign AFCON star ahead of January transfer deadline

The Blues have reportedly entered discussions to sign Feyenoord and Algeria forward Anis Hadj-Moussa before the January transfer window closes.

The 23-year-old winger drew significant attention with his dynamic substitute appearances for Algeria at the Africa Cup of Nations, where his team got knocked out by Nigeria in the quarter-finals.

His international form builds on a strong start to the season with Feyenoord, where he has tallied seven goals and three assists in 23 games.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Hadj-Moussa's performances at AFCON have attracted interest from several European clubs, with Chelsea now making a formal approach.

The report claims the Blues have made initial inquiries about a potential winter transfer, with a meeting held between the player's agent, Mohamed Dahmane, and club officials at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are actively seeking to add promising young players to their roster, and Hadj-Moussa is said to be on their shortlist

Feyenoord are reportedly aware of the London club's interest, and a deal could materialize this month if a "satisfactory" offer is presented.

However, Chelsea may face competition from Marseille, who have also shown strong interest. It is suggested that the forward would be open to a move to the Stade Velodrome.

A graduate of the Lens academy, Hadj-Moussa has played for five different clubs in his young career and will turn 24 next month. His current contract with the Rotterdam-based club is set to expire in June 2030.