‎Chelsea Begin Transfer Discussions for AFCON Star Anis Hadj Moussa After Man City Heroics

‎Chelsea are reported to have initiated contact over a possible transfer for Feyenoord winger Anis Hadj Moussa. The 23-year-old has enhanced his reputation through eye-catching displays for both club and country, notably during Algeria’s journey to the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, as well as with a memorable Champions League goal against Manchester City last season.

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Chelsea have reportedly opened talks over a move for Feyenoord winger Anis Hadj Moussa, the AFCON standout who also scored against Manchester City in the Champions League.

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‎Hadj Moussa played a key role at AFCON, contributing two assists in a 3-1 group-stage victory over Equatorial Guinea. His performances helped Algeria reach the last eight before they were eliminated by Nigeria, further increasing interest in his progress at international level.

‎Chelsea navigating a new era under Liam Rosenior

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‎The start of 2026 has brought significant change at Stamford Bridge. January saw Enzo Maresca depart and Liam Rosenior arrive from Strasbourg, following a period in which Chelsea’s form dipped despite earlier successes under the Italian, including triumphs in the Conference League and Club World Cup.

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‎With Rosenior now at the helm, uncertainty surrounds Chelsea’s approach to the January transfer window. Mid-season business is often complicated by clubs’ reluctance to sell, unless bids are impossible to ignore. Earlier reports suggested Chelsea would prioritise player sales this month, although opportunities in the market could still be explored if the right deal presents itself.

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‎AFCON displays put Hadj Moussa in the spotlight

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‎Hadj Moussa’s tournament in Africa featured a standout display against Equatorial Guinea, where he registered two assists. However, after that match, he found himself starting on the bench for the following two fixtures, making substitute appearances as Algeria progressed.

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‎According to Foot Mercato, Chelsea have since approached the player’s agent, Mohamed Dahmane, to gather information on a potential deal. Feyenoord are aware that an exit could become possible should a sufficiently attractive offer arrive, even though the winger signed a contract extension last year that runs until 2030, placing the Dutch club in a strong negotiating position.

‎Champions League goal against Man City still resonates

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‎Long before AFCON, Hadj Moussa had already announced himself on a major stage in the Champions League. In a dramatic group match last season, he scored in a remarkable 3-3 draw against Manchester City.

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‎Feyenoord had been 3-0 down after goals from Erling Haaland and Ilkay Gündogan, but Hadj Moussa’s strike in the 75th minute sparked a late comeback. Further goals from Santiago Gimenez and David Hancko earned Feyenoord a point and saw City become the first team in Champions League history to lead by three goals after the 75th minute and still fail to win.

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‎Reflecting on that performance, then Feyenoord head coach Brian Priske praised the winger’s impact, highlighting his attacking influence, discipline, and improved decision-making at the highest level of European football.

‎Chelsea remain focused on long-term squad building

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‎Chelsea’s reported interest in Hadj Moussa aligns with their broader recruitment strategy in recent seasons. The club has consistently targeted young talents with room to grow, aiming to blend potential with established quality.

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‎The previous summer transfer window brought arrivals such as Liam Delap, Estevao, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens, while significant investments have also been made in players like Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez since Todd Boehly and BlueCo completed the takeover from Roman Abramovich.