Why Chelsea wanted Guiu back after Delap's injury

Chelsea recalled Marc Guiu as their top option to address striker Liam Delap's injury.

Guiu, 19, was deemed the best loanee to lead the attack at Stamford Bridge by the Chelsea hierarchy, given his Premier League experience and understanding of manager Enzo Maresca's style of play.

There had been a period of uncertainty around Chelsea's activity after Delap suffered a serious-looking hamstring injury in the 2-0 win over Fulham.

A ripple effect across the transfer market followed, including blocking Nicolas Jackson from undergoing a medical examination at Bayern Munich and an inquiry to Sporting about striker Conrad Harder.

However, concerns about the Denmark Under-21 forward's ability to make a difference at Chelsea made him an opportunity not worth pursuing, especially as he ultimately joined RB Leipzig.

Instead, Guiu, who joined Chelsea from Barcelona in 2024 for £5m, was seen as deserving the opportunity created by Delap's injury, and his pathway should not be blocked by a new signing.

There was no recall clause in Guiu's loan agreement with Sunderland, but the two clubs' positive relationship enabled them to reach a deal, aided by a penalty clause if the young striker did not play sufficient minutes.

Chelsea also factored in Strasbourg striker Emanuel Emegha when making the decision.

The 22-year-old, who now captains the French club in their Ligue 1 and Conference League campaigns, is seen internally as a future Netherlands international and player capable of featuring for Chelsea or in the Premier League soon.

The decision not to sign Harder and to work with Guiu was also made with Emegha's future development in mind.