Ex-Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech linked with return to Premier League with surprise club: Reports

Everton are eyeing a move for former Chelsea forward Hakim Ziyech, according to Jeunes Footeux. The Moroccan forward currently plies his trade with Galatasaray but remains linked with an exit in January.

Ziyech first caught the eye with Ajax, prompting the Blues to prise him away in the summer of 2020. However, the 31-year-old failed to live up to expectations with the London giants, managing just 14 goals and 13 assists from 107 games.

Chelsea initially sent him out on loan to Galatasaray in August 2023. Ziyech was quite impressive with the Turkish giants, prompting them to sign him permanently this summer.

However, the Moroccan has dropped down the pecking order this season, registering 11 appearances across competitions, only three of which were starts. Despite his struggles, the player isn't short of options, with as many as six clubs reportedly eyeing him ahead of the winter transfer window.

While Everton are planning to bring him back to Premier League, the former Chelsea ace also has admirers at Real Sociedad, Girona, Villarreal, West Ham United, and Stade Rennais. The Toffees are planning for attacking reinforcements this January as they look to preserve their Premier League status.

The Merseyside club are 15th in the league table after 16 games, four points ahead of 17th-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers, who have played a game more. Sean Dyche wants an upgrade on Jack Harrison and has Ziyech on his radar. The Moroccan's contract with Galatasaray expires at the end of this season.

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When are Chelsea back in action?

Enzo Maresca

Chelsea are back in action on Boxing day, December 26, when they take the short trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham in the Premier League. Enzo Maresca's team arrive at the game on the back of a disappointing 0-0 draw against Everton, which brought their eight-game winning run to a halt.

The Italian manager will be determined to secure all three points against the Cottagers as they try to chase down Liverpool. The Reds are leading the title race at the moment, four points ahead of the Blues, who are second and have played a game more.

The London giants have been in superb form under Enzo Maresca this season, winning 10 of their 17 games in the league, and losing just twice. Chelsea have scored 37 goals and conceded 19 in the league so far. They are also leading the UEFA Conference League table, with six wins in their six games.