Chelsea have agreed a seven-year contract with Borussia Dortmund forward Jamie Gittens as part of a long-term project to strengthen their attack. The 20-year-old England U21 international sees the move as a vital step towards a senior national team call-up and the 2026 World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel, reports David Ornstein.
Chelsea has submitted an official proposal for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens, securing a seven-year contract with the 20-year-old England Under-21 international. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Gittens “only wants to join Chelsea,” viewing the move as key to breaking into Thomas Tuchel’s 2026 World Cup squad.
Dortmund’s coach Niko Kovac considers Gittens not a natural fit for the team’s tactics, prompting the Bundesliga side to accept the transfer amidst a planned squad overhaul. Gittens scored 12 goals in the 2024–25 season, including four in the Champions League.
Chelsea’s strategy under new ownership focuses on long-term development, reflected in the lengthy contract. Gittens brings Premier League-ready experience, having played 106 times for Dortmund since 2020. His versatility across forward positions fits Chelsea’s evolving attacking style.
Chelsea’s previous Bundesliga signing, Jadon Sancho, did not meet expectations, but Gittens represents a more adaptable option. The deal also thwarted Bayern Munich’s earlier interest in the player.
Gittens aims to use Chelsea as a platform to secure a place in England’s senior squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Chelsea hopes he will lead their new attacking identity as they rebuild.