Chelsea has lined up a sensational replacement for Mykhaylo Mudryk as the winger faces a potential drugs ban, ensuring the squad remains competitive in his absence. The club has reportedly secured an agreement for a versatile attacker considered to have the same game-changing impact as Raheem Sterling at his peak, adding flair and consistency to the Blues’ offensive options.

Chelsea’s squad has been thrown into turmoil following reports that Mykhaylo Mudryk has tested positive for a banned substance and could face a suspension of up to four years.

Since his £88.5 million transfer from Shakhtar Donetsk nearly two years ago, Mudryk has struggled to fully adapt to the Premier League but has remained a crucial squad member under Enzo Maresca this season. He has been a regular in cup competitions, netting three goals in the Europa Conference League.

If Mudryk’s absence extends for an extended period, it would disrupt Chelsea’s balance on the left wing. However, the club already has a contingency plan in place.

Jadon Sancho, brought in on loan from Manchester United this summer, has contributed five goal involvements in 10 Premier League matches. Chelsea ensured the deal included an obligation-to-buy clause, securing a permanent transfer for £20-25 million. This foresight means Sancho will remain a Chelsea player regardless of Mudryk’s situation.

Additionally, the Blues have lined up deals for young talents Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez, who will join next summer. Both players can play in multiple attacking roles, offering tactical flexibility.

Even without Mudryk, Chelsea has enough depth to manage the left-wing position, with Pedro Neto also available as an option. While the club could avoid making any immediate moves in the transfer market, Maresca would still prefer to retain Mudryk.

The 23-year-old has denied any wrongdoing and expressed shock over the test results, stating: “This has come as a complete shock, as I have never knowingly used banned substances or broken any rules. I am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.”