Joe Shields Wanted to Buy £100m Premier League Sensation Before the Window Closed

The summer transfer window of 2025 was a whirlwind of activity for Chelsea FC, with recruitment chief Joe Shields spearheading a bold, last-minute attempt to sign £100m Premier League.

With the report coming from TBR Football, Chelsea’s interest in the 23-year-old attacker was clear but Villa held firm preventing Chelsea to get it done before the window shut.

Joe Shields’ Vision: Targeting a Familiar Talent

Joe Shields, Chelsea’s recruitment mastermind, has built a reputation for spotting and nurturing young talent. Having previously worked at Manchester City, Shields played a key role in bringing Morgan Rogers into the City academy, fostering a connection that he hoped to reignite at Stamford Bridge.

Known for his data-driven approach and personal relationships with players, Shields identified Rogers as a priority target, leveraging their shared history to fuel Chelsea’s pursuit. With his versatility and attacking flair, fits the mould of Chelsea’s long-term vision under Todd Boehly’s ownership.

Morgan Rogers: A Premier League Gem

Morgan Rogers has emerged as a standout performer for Aston Villa, earning England caps at just 23 years old. His journey from Manchester City’s youth ranks to a key role in the Midlands has seen him contribute goals, assists, and dynamic play, helping Villa compete at the top of the Premier League.

His close friendship with Chelsea star Cole Palmer, forged through 28 shared appearances for club and country, adds an intriguing layer to this transfer story. The pair frequently exchange messages after games, with Palmer celebrating Rogers’ goals and milestones, hinting at a seamless fit within Chelsea’s squad.

Morgan Rogers - Dribbling pic.twitter.com/vjD5LpviOl

— ger #KILLWINSTANLEY (@goodayger) June 13, 2025

Rogers’ £100m valuation reflects his importance to Villa, who rebuffed interest from rivals like Tottenham Hotspur. Chelsea’s monitoring of the attacker began earlier in the summer, with plans to unlock a deal, but Villa’s firm stance made a transfer challenging.

Deadline Day Drama: Chelsea’s Late Effort

As the 2025 transfer window neared its close, Chelsea intensified their efforts to sign Rogers. Shields, driven by his admiration for the player, saw him as the ideal midfield target with attacking prowess, capable of elevating Chelsea’s squad.

The Blues positioned themselves to capitalize on any late opportunity, but Villa’s resolve held firm, declaring Rogers untouchable.

Ultimately, Chelsea pivoted to other options, including a loan move for Brighton’s Facundo Buonanotte, while keeping Rogers as their top target for 2026.

Looking Ahead: Rogers as Chelsea’s 2026 Prize

Chelsea’s transfer strategy prioritizes youth and potential, and Morgan Rogers embodies both. His respect for Shields and bond with Palmer position Chelsea as frontrunners for a future bid, despite Villa’s high valuation.

As the Blues plan for 2026, Rogers remains a prime target, with Shields’ vision potentially shaping Chelsea’s attacking future. For now, Morgan Rogers stays at Villa, but the Stamford Bridge faithful will be watching closely when the transfer window reopens.