Chelsea identified James Garner as a 'mystery' Premier League player, who could also provide cover at right-back. The Blues were willing to pay £65m for the Everton ace, having held out for their full record-equaling £125m Enzo Fernandez valuation from Manchester City. However, Everton were unwilling to entertain any offers so late in the window, with Garner settled at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Chelsea's desperate attempt to sign Garner highlights their need for a new midfielder, following the departure of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City. The Blues had identified a list of deadline day midfield targets, but their bid for Garner was ultimately rejected by Everton.