Chelsea’s search for a new winger has intensified as the club prepares for the possibility of a long-term absence for Mykhailo Mudryk. The Ukrainian winger, who hasn’t featured since November, is now facing a potential four-year ban after testing positive for meldonium, a prohibited substance.
Mudryk has been provisionally suspended since December and recently charged by the FA. While he maintains his innocence, the shadow cast over his future at Stamford Bridge has grown. In light of this, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has acknowledged the need to reinforce that area of the squad.
The winger’s last appearance was in the Europa Conference League final celebrations in Poland, where he joined teammates following their win over Real Betis. Since then, he has been stripped of the number 10 jersey—now worn by Cole Palmer—and his situation remains unresolved.
Maresca admitted he hasn’t been in touch with Mudryk since that match in Poland. While he still considers him a Chelsea player, the uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the doping case has made it clear that backup is needed.
Chelsea had already spent the past season operating without Mudryk. Now, their transfer efforts have been refocused on securing a replacement. Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens was among the targets, but bids for him have been rejected. The Blues are now exploring additional wide options in the market.
The club decided not to retain Jadon Sancho following his loan stint, prompting Maresca to stress the urgency of signing a new winger. Pedro Neto and Noni Madueke remain in the squad, but with Madueke linked to Newcastle United and Arsenal, Maresca believes the position still needs improvement.
Despite speculation around Madueke’s future, Maresca reaffirmed the winger remains in his plans. He also emphasized that every player, including those under scrutiny, will be given trust until proven otherwise.
Chelsea’s summer window is shaping up to be pivotal—not just for their squad depth, but also for how they respond to one of the most high-profile disciplinary cases in recent Premier League memory.