Christ Inao Oulai has taken the Turkish Super Lig by storm. The Ivorian international is having a dream debut season at Trabzonspor, and it has attracted interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
According to a report from SportsBoom, Chelsea and Tottenham are two of the biggest English clubs that are interested in the 20-year-old’s services. The Blues are believed to be ahead of rivals Spurs in their pursuit of the youngster, who is considered to be a complete midfielder.
Scouts from a number of English clubs have been present in the stands to watch Inao Oulai in action. Chelsea and Tottenham have opened “high-priority” files on the Ivorian midfielder. They have been sending scouts to all Trabzonspor fixtures to gather an extensive report on the youngster ahead of a potential transfer.
Inao Oulai made the move to the Turkish club last summer in a deal worth just €5.5 million, and he now looks set to smash every transfer record in the history of the club. While he has racked up fewer than 1,900 minutes in his 23 outings, the 20-year-old has impressed with his ability to have an impact on both ends of the pitch.
He prefers playing as a number eight but is capable enough to take up any role in midfield. At 1.73m, he is known for his strong physical presence and endless energy. He has a success rate of over 60% in duels, which speaks volumes about his talent.
Not only is he exceptional defensively, but he can also help create, which is evident with his six goal contributions this term. Scouting reports from Spurs and Chelsea have highlighted his ball retention and recovery speed.
Both London clubs believe he has everything to succeed in the Premier League. The North London club do not have enough quality and depth in the centre of the park, and reinforcing it is a priority for them.
Meanwhile, Chelsea do have quality options in midfield; they could look to bring in Inao Oulai to replace the injury-prone Romeo Lavia. The youngster is certainly an ideal fit for the Blues’ project.
With his contract running until 2030, the Turkish club have made it clear that they won’t negotiate below €40 million. Trabzonspor want to have him around for another season, as it will help push his value closer to €50 million.
The Turkish club are expected to open negotiations for €45–€50 million. Meanwhile, reports suggest Chelsea have already tested the water with an offer of around €40 million and that they have held talks with his camp in London.
