Chelsea failed with late Mathys Tel hijack attempt before Tottenham transfer

Chelsea are reported to have failed with a late attempt to hijack Mathys Tel's loan switch to Tottenham Hotspur on transfer deadline day.

The Blues have long chased Tel's signature and sprung into action when the young forward decided to leave Bayern Munich late in the winter window, but it is believed Tel declined a move to Chelsea amid fears he would not be given significant minutes under Enzo Maresca.

Tottenham, after failing with an initial approach to convince Tel to join permanently, struck a deal to sign the 19-year-old on a loan which includes the option for a summer transfer, but L'Equipe state they had to fend off another late bid from Chelsea.

The situation brings back clear memories of Chelsea's acquisition of Brazilian forward Willian in 2013. The winger, who is on the cusp of a return to Fulham, was flown over by Tottenham and even underwent a medical with the club before a late twist saw Chelsea win the race for his signature.

For Tel, the chance to join on a non-permanent deal was key. He wants to be in control of his own destiny and still has a say in his next move even if Tottenham choose to trigger their purchase clause, which is believed to sit around the £49m mark.

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