Liverpool, Tottenham, and Chelsea in Three-Way Battle for Andreas Schjelderup

Liverpool are reportedly battling Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea over a deal to sign SL Benfica star Andreas Schjelderup, according to Portuguese outlet A Bola. The 20-year-old Norwegian winger is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League, with all three clubs monitoring his situation at the Estádio da Luz.

Background: Schjelderup's Path to Benfica

Schjelderup joined Benfica from FC Nordsjælland in 2023 for a reported €14m, but has struggled for consistent first-team minutes in Lisbon. He spent part of the 2023-24 season on loan at Nordsjælland, scoring five goals in 14 appearances. This season, he has featured mainly as a substitute, registering two goals in 12 league outings. His versatility across the front line — capable of playing on either wing or as a central attacking midfielder — has attracted attention from Premier League scouts.

The £34m (€40m) valuation reflects Benfica's desire to recoup a profit on their investment. For context, Benfica's sale of young talent is a well-established model; they previously sold João Félix for €126m and Enzo Fernández for €121m.

Impact: What Schjelderup Would Bring to Each Club

For Liverpool, Schjelderup could provide depth behind Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz. Manager Arne Slot favours a fluid front three, and the Norwegian's dribbling ability and creativity would fit the system. However, Liverpool already have Cody Gakpo and Darwin Núñez as wide options, so a move might depend on potential outgoings.

Tottenham's interest stems from Ange Postecoglou's need for wide attackers who can cut inside and create chances. With Dejan Kulusevski often operating deeper, Schjelderup could offer a natural left-footed option from the right flank. Spurs have struggled for consistency in attack, and adding a young, hungry player aligns with Postecoglou's project.

Chelsea, under Enzo Maresca, are assembling a squad of young talents. Schjelderup would join an already crowded attack including Cole Palmer, Raheem Sterling, and Mykhailo Mudryk. But his ability to play centrally could make him an option behind the striker, a role Chelsea have lacked depth in since Christopher Nkunku's injury issues.

Transfer Market Context and FPL Angle

The £34m fee is modest by Premier League standards. For comparison, Manchester United paid £55m for Antony, and Arsenal spent £65m on Kai Havertz. If Schjelderup moves at that price, he would represent a value signing. In Fantasy Premier League, he would likely be priced around £5.5-6.5m if he joins a mid-table club, but could rise to £7m if he secures a starting spot at a top side. His upcoming fixtures would depend on his move, but he offers a high ceiling for FPL managers willing to bet on a young star.

  • Schjelderup has averaged 1.9 key passes per 90 minutes in the Primeira Liga this season.
  • He has completed 2.1 dribbles per game, showing his ability to beat defenders.
  • His creativity rate ranks in the top 20% among wingers in Portugal.

What's Next: The Race Heats Up

Benfica are expected to demand the full £34m fee, and may hold out for a bidding war. With the January window approaching, all three clubs could move early to secure his signature. Liverpool are reportedly considering a January bid, while Tottenham may wait until summer. Chelsea's move depends on outgoings, such as Armando Broja or Raheem Sterling. Schjelderup's preference for regular game time could be decisive — a factor that might favour Spurs if they guarantee a starting role. Expect developments in the coming weeks.

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