Harder scored five league goals for Sporting last season. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

Nizaar Kinsella: Why Chelsea backed out of deal for Sporting striker on deadline day

Originally posted on Chelsea News | Last updated Sep 3, 2025 10:00 AM ET

Chelsea’s end to the transfer window was hectic – really hectic, even by their standards.

The Blues had Nicolas Jackson on his way to Bayern Munich for a medical when Liam Delap tore his hamstring against Fulham. The Blues then paused Jackson’s deal while they scrambled for replacements.

In the end they were able to cancel Marc Guiu’s loan to Sunderland and green light Jackson’s move again, but according to Nizaar Kinsella of BBC Sport they also considered other options.

Conrad Harder considered as an option before Guiu plan developed

“A ripple effect across the transfer market followed [the injury], including blocking Nicolas Jackson from undergoing a medical examination at Bayern Munich and an inquiry to Sporting about striker Conrad Harder,” Kinsella wrote.

“However, concerns about the Denmark Under-21 forward’s ability to make a difference at Chelsea made him an opportunity not worth pursuing, especially as he ultimately joined RB Leipzig.”

Chelsea already have next summer’s plans lined up

It will be very interesting to see how it all plays out now. We will be watching Harder’s progress with great curiosity. He looks a proper talent without doubt, but we can understand why the decision was made to not bring him in if he was likely to be third choice all year.

Another factor is the future of Emanuel Emegha of Strasbourg. Kinsella mentions Chelsea’s long standing interest in him – if Jackson leaves permanently, we expect Emegha to be our top target to replace him, given he will be coming from our sister club.

Buying Harder would only have clogged those future plans further. That’s all very well for the future – but what of now? Is Guiu and Joao Pedro really enough to keep this team going on 4 fronts while Delap is out?

This article first appeared on Chelsea News and was syndicated with permission.

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