CHELSEA are reportedly plotting a shock move for Georginio Wijnaldum after deadline day proved to be a disaster.
The West Londoners were furious when Monaco pulled the plug on a deal which would have seen Lamine Camara complete a last-gasp switch to Stamford Bridge.
And, having flogged Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City for a British record-equalling £125million, Chelsea have been left short of options in the middle of the park.
But Blues chief Xabi Alonso is now considering dipping into the free agency market as he makes a desperate attempt to secure more cover.
Foot Mercato report Chelsea have contacted Wijnaldum, 35, ahead of potentially offering a surprise route back into the Premier League.
The Dutchman is still up for grabs despite the transfer window slamming shut on Tuesday because of leaving Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq in the summer.
READ MORE ON CHELSEA
FEELING BLUE
Chelsea fuming with Monaco as Lamine Camara deal sheet blunder ended transfer
CRACKER
Win stunning £600k 4-Bedroom Luxury Home & BMW X5 for just £1.79 with our discount
Chelsea are ready to offer Wijnaldum a short-term contract if personal terms can be agreed.
Alonso sees the former Newcastle man as an attractive option due to already boasting plenty of Premier League experience.
Wijnaldum made 217 appearances in the English top-flight during spells at St James’ Park and Liverpool.
He also became an Anfield hero after winning the Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup and Super Cup with the Merseyside giants.
Most read in Sport
SAMBA STAR
Sancho ‘agrees shock free transfer to Brazil and links up with ex-Prem stars’
CLOSE CARL
Alcaraz suffers US Open wardrobe malfunction as Bouchard says ‘put it away’
LOCKED UP
Joey Barton could face 6 more months in jail as golf club ‘attack’ trial delayed
RIP
British champion boxer who was forced into retirement with brain damage dies
But Wijnaldum stunned Liverpool chiefs when he snubbed fresh terms and joined Paris Saint-Germain five years ago.
The midfielder found the back of the net 17 times in 34 outings for Al-Ettifaq last season.
It was still not enough for the Saudi Pro League big-spenders to reward him with a new deal.
And Wijnaldum has been left in limbo since being shown the exit door by Al-Ettifaq.
More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online
Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.
Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun.
More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online
Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.
Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun.

