Renowned Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that Chelsea are set to miss out on a key target to replace Renato Veiga, as Manchester United edge closer to finalizing a deal for the highly-rated youngster in the January transfer window. United have successfully hijacked the transfer, leaving Chelsea in urgent need of identifying an alternative solution.

Chelsea saw minimal departures in the January transfer window, reducing the urgency for new signings. However, one surprising exit was Renato Veiga, who has joined Juventus on loan for the rest of the season.

The Portuguese defender struggled to break into Chelsea’s first team, particularly in his preferred center-back position. With limited playing time at Stamford Bridge, a temporary move to Serie A offers him a chance to develop further in his natural role. There is speculation that if Veiga secures consistent minutes at Juventus, he may consider making the switch permanent rather than returning to Chelsea in the summer.

Following Veiga’s departure, Chelsea explored options for a left-back reinforcement, with Patrick Dorgu emerging as a key target. However, Manchester United have moved ahead in the race to sign the talented defender. According to reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Dorgu is set to undergo medical tests before finalizing his move to Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, Manchester United remain active in the market, looking to strengthen their squad. Their ability to bring in new signings may depend on offloading a major player, with Alejandro Garnacho being one of the names linked to an exit. Chelsea is reportedly keeping an eye on his situation, but it remains uncertain whether they will make an official bid before the transfer window closes. Fans are divided on whether Garnacho would be the right fit for the squad at this stage.

In other developments, reports suggest that João Félix is growing frustrated at Chelsea due to limited game time. The Portuguese forward has struggled to secure a regular role and is reportedly seeking a move to gain more playing opportunities. AC Milan has stepped in and agreed to sign Félix on loan for the rest of the season, with the forward hoping to revive his form in Serie A.

Manchester United’s transfer business does not stop with Dorgu. The club has reportedly reached out to a top Bundesliga team in pursuit of a prolific striker. United is considering a record-breaking deal to sign an elite forward, prioritizing this move over other targets such as Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund. Their search for attacking reinforcements underlines their ambition to finish the season strongly.