Chelsea’s Kounde transfer boost as Barcelona PULL OUT, Rabiot and Militao LATEST, Richarlison ‘£50m bid prepared’
CHELSEA look set to rival Manchester United for Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot, according to reports.
Elsewhere, the Blues have been handed a mega boost in their pursuit of Jules Kounde, with Barcelona said to have pulled out of the race to sign the Frenchman.
The Catalans are said to be unable to afford Sevilla's £65m asking price, particularly as they are looking to sign two-time Fifa Best Award winner Robert Lewandowski.
And Chelsea are reportedly willing to make a £50million bid for Everton forward Richarlison.
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Armando Broja EXCLUSIVE
Southampton will not be pursuing a move for Chelsea's Armando Broja and that is set to give West Ham a huge transfer boost, reports SunSport's Tom Barclay.
The Hammers have made Broja their top target this summer and they are set to bid around £30million to try to convince the Blues to sell.
Saints were initially keen to explore a fresh move for the striker, whether it be on loan or on a permanent deal.
But they have now moved on to other targets, meaning a return to the South Coast for the Albania international looks extremely unlikely
Credit: GETTY IMAGES Kounde transfer boost
Chelsea have been given a free run at signing Jules Kounde as Barcelona are unable to meet Sevilla’s £65million asking price.
Barca are already set to snap up the Blues' ace Andreas Christensen on a free transfer.
But report manager Xavi is also keen on signing Kounde to create a new defensive partnership.
Sevilla feel the centre-back should be selling for around £65m this summer.
However, broke Barcelona do not have that kind of money available and that opens the door for the West Londoners to finally completely a highly-anticipated deal.
It’s reckoned the France international has already agreed a five-year contract to join Chelsea
Marina Granovskaia leaves
Chelsea have announced sporting director Marina Granovskaia will leave after the summer transfer window.
The Blues’ new owner and chairman Todd Boehly will fill Granovskaia’s role until a full-time replacement is determined.
However, the two parties will remain in touch until the end of the summer transfer window.
Chelsea released the following statement: “Chelsea FC and Ms. Granovskaia have agreed that she will remain available to Boehly and the Club for the duration of the current transfer window, to the extent required to support the transition”
Kylian Mbappe rejected
Chelsea once sensationally rejected Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe because of concerns about his defensive abilities.
Mbappe went on trial for the Blues when he was 12 years old and spent a week at Cobham but was only invited back for a second trial at the end of it, rather than being offered a contract.
That infuriated the now 23-year-old’s mother, who gave them an ultimatum via former scout Serge Daniel Boga.
Boga told : “She said to me, ‘listen, my boy won’t be coming back. If they want him they have to take him now, or in five years time they will be coming back to buy him for €50million (£45m)’.”
Boga added: “He was very skilful, but in England they want to see the player track back and be a hard worker.
“At the time, he wasn’t a hard worker, defensively he wasn’t there yet. When he got the ball, he was unbelievable, but without the ball, he didn’t work a lot.
“Chelsea wanted to see him again to see how he could improve on this – I think that’s why they asked him back. He did skilful things and dribbled well, so maybe the things they wanted to see in the second trial was improved work on the defensive side.”
Mbappe left West London with just a Chelsea shirt he was gifted at the end of his trial with the club
Kep at it
Nice are lining up a potential loan swoop for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga after losing their No1 Walter Benitez to PSV Eindhoven.
According to , the Ligue 1 outfit want Kepa to replace Benitez between the sticks this season.
The world's most expensive stopper arrived at Stamford Bridge for a whopping £71.6million in 2018.
However, since Edouard Mendy arrived two years later, the Spain international has been reduced to a bench-warming or cup-keeper role.
The 27-year-old still has three years left on his seven-year contract in West London but has grown frustrated over his bit-part role
Credit: GETTY IMAGES Makelele to become manager
Chelsea legend Claude Makelele has declared his aim to become DR Congo's national coach.
Makelele has recently been back at Stamford Bridge as a youth mentor and has also been an ambassador for Congo's FA.
The national team have sacked manager Hector Raul Cuper following defeats in Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Gabon and Sudan.
And the ex-Real Madrid star said he would relish the chance to take charge of the Leopards.
Makelele told : "Speaking personally, I feel ready to manage the DRC national team.
"We all need to sit down together in order to restructure football in the Democratic Republic of Congo"
Sterling 'asks about Chelsea'
Manchester City star Raheem Sterling has reportedly been making enquiries about Chelsea ahead of a £45million move.
Sterling has contacted two people to get a lay of the land in West London, according to The Athletic.
And the forward was keen to find out what Blues manager Thomas Tuchel is like to work with.
The England international was also interested in what it’s like to play for Chelsea, it was added
Chelsea target Richarlison
Chelsea could steal a march on Arsenal and Tottenham with a £50million bid for Everton star Richarlison.
According to the Daily Mail, the Blues are keen on the striker as well as Manchester City's England attacker Raheem Sterling.
New owner Todd Boehly is reportedly happy to spend big in this summer transfer window.
And the Brazil international's value soared with six goals in the last nine games of the Premier League season to help the Toffees stay up.
The Gunners , Spurs and Newcastle are among the other clubs linked with the 25-year-old as well
Romelu Lukaku transfer reminder
Chelsea have agreed to send club-record signing Romelu Lukaku back to Inter Milan on a one-year loan costing just £7million, according to SunSport's Tom Barclay.
Lukaku, who joined the Blues from Inter for a whopping £97.5million only 10 months ago, will also take a hefty wage cut to seal the deal.
The two clubs came to an agreement on Tuesday in a move that includes add-ons and will see the West Londoners pay none of the striker's wages this season.
The Belgium international never seemed completely sold on a move back to Chelsea, whom he initially joined as a teenager in 2011, yet eventually made the switch in August.
The 29-year-old had issues with injuries as well as COVID-19 and struggled to fit into Thomas Tuchel’s system.
Lukaku did nothing to endear himself to Tuchel with a bombshell interview in December where he revealed he was “not happy” at the club and wished to return to Inter “in the near future”
Credit: GETTY IMAGES
Romelu Lukaku transfer reminder
Chelsea have agreed to send club-record signing Romelu Lukaku back to Inter Milan on a one-year loan costing just £7million, according to SunSport's Tom Barclay.
Lukaku, who joined the Blues from Inter for a whopping £97.5million only 10 months ago, will also take a hefty wage cut to seal the deal.
The two clubs came to an agreement on Tuesday in a move that includes add-ons and will see the West Londoners pay none of the striker's wages this season.
The Belgium international never seemed completely sold on a move back to Chelsea, whom he initially joined as a teenager in 2011, yet eventually made the switch in August.
The 29-year-old had issues with injuries as well as COVID-19 and struggled to fit into Thomas Tuchel’s system.
Lukaku did nothing to endear himself to Tuchel with a bombshell interview in December where he revealed he was “not happy” at the club and wished to return to Inter “in the near future”
Morning, Chelsea fans
Romelu Lukaku is on the brink of returning to Inter Milan - with Richarlison joining Raheem Sterling as a possible replacement up front.
Inter have 'reached an agreement in principle' to borrow Lukaku for next season.
The Italian giants will reportedly pay a £6.9million loan fee plus add-ons for the Belgium superstar, 29.
It comes amid claims Chelsea have moved ahead of Tottenham in the £50m hunt for Everton frontman Richarlison.
But Manchester City's Sterling is still regarded as the priority strike target for Stamford Bridge chief Thomas Tuchel.
As for central defence, it's claimed the Blues are clear favourites to sign Sevilla's Jules Kounde - because Barcelona can't afford him.
But it's understood Italy star Alessandro Bastoni wants to snub Chelsea and Spurs to stay at Inter Milan.
Tuchel, of course, has a huge gap to plug in his backline after last season's inspiration Antonio Rudiger joined Real Madrid.
Finally, Southampton have won the race for Armel Bella-Kotchap despite the VfL Bochum defender being linked with Chelsea, Tottenham and City.
Blues agree Romelu return to Inter
Chelsea have agreed to send club-record signing Romelu Lukaku back to Inter Milan on a one-year loan costing just £7million, writes TOM BARCLAY.
Belgian striker Lukaku, who joined the Blues from Inter for a whopping £97.5million only ten months ago, will also take a hefty wage cut to seal the deal.
The two clubs came to an agreement last night (TUES) in a move that includes add-ons and will see Chelsea pay none of the forward’s wages this season.
But it does little to hide the fact that Lukaku’s move to Stamford Bridge last summer will go down as one of the costliest in Premier League history.
The former Manchester United hitman, 29, had a stellar campaign at Inter the season before last as he won Serie A under Antonio Conte.
He never seemed completely sold on a move back to Chelsea, whom he initially joined as a teenager in 2011, yet eventually made the switch in August.
Lukaku had issues with injuries and Covid and struggled to fit into Thomas Tuchel’s system.
He did nothing to endear himself to the German coach with a bombshell interview in December where the striker revealed he was “not happy” at the club and wished to return to Inter “in the near future”.
Alessandro set to stay at Inter
Chelsea and Tottenham target Alessandro Bastoni plans to stay at Inter Milan.
The Italy centre-back, 23, has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.
The Blues want him to help plug the gap left by Real Madrid newboy Antonio Rudiger. Spurs boss and former Inter gaffer Antonio Conte is also after reinforcements in his backline.
And both English clubs will have been heartened by Inter chief executive Giuseppe Marotta indicating this week they are ready to sell a defender to help balance their books.
He told Radio Rai: “It’s certainly easier to replace a centre-back than a striker.
“We will probably be forced to sell someone in that position.”
Arsenal keen on Morata
Ex-Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata is said to be in Arsenal’s sights.
Atletico Madrid’s Spain ace, 29, has just enjoyed two reasonably successful seasons on loan with Juventus.
Fabio Vieira and Marquinhos have already joined the Gunners this summer.
And Caught Offside claims Arsenal have even made a bid for the former Real Madrid targetman Morata.
Arsenal keen on Morata
Ex-Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata is said to be in Arsenal’s sights.
Atletico Madrid’s Spain ace, 29, has just enjoyed two reasonably successful seasons on loan with Juventus.
Fabio Vieira and Marquinhos have already joined the Gunners this summer.
And Caught Offside claims Arsenal have even made a bid for the former Real Madrid targetman Morata.
Maatsen on Feyenoord shortlist
Feyenoord have reportedly agreed a deal for Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen.
The Holland Under-21 star is set to depart Stamford Bridge again this summer after loans with Charlton and Coventry.
But Voetbal International say the 20-year-old is just one option being considered by the Dutch giants as they prepare to sell Holland international Tyrell Malacia.
Other options beside Maatsen include Bayer Leverkusen’s Daley Sinkgraven and Twente ace Joshua Brenet.
Saints beat Blues to Armel
Southampton have won the race for Armel Bella-Kotchap despite the VfL Bochum defender being linked with Tottenham, Chelsea, and Manchester City.
The 20-year-old German has reportedly signed a four-year deal with the Saints.
The Under-21 international helped Bochum into the Bundesliga two seasons ago before making 26 top-flight appearances last term.
Inter 'reach Lukaku agreement'
Romelu Lukaku's loan back to Inter Milan moved a huge step closer with reports they've reached an agreement in principle with Chelsea.
The striker, 29, seems sure to return to the San Siro for 2022-23.
According to , a deal is almost done following negotiations between the two clubs. The terms agreed will see Inter pay a £6.9million loan fee plus add-ons.
And they have also sorted out how Lukaku's £325,000-a-week wages and personal bonuses will be paid.
However, there is understood to be no option or obligation to buy him in the contract.
New Chelsea owner Todd Boehley's relationship with Michael Yormack, president of Roc Nation who represent Lukaku - played a pivotal part in the switch.
The report adds the Belgian forward is due to undergo a medical next week. And assuming all goes to plan, their former star will complete his return to Inter just a year after his £97.5m record transfer back to Stamford Bridge.
That deal saw Lukaku pen a five-year contract in West London until 2026, meaning he will still have three years left to run on the deal when the loan finishes.
Blues favourites to grab Jules
Chelsea have reportedly been given a free run at signing France centre-back Jules Kounde.
That’s because Barcelona are unable to meet Sevilla’s £65million asking price.
The LaLiga giants are already set to snap up Andreas Christensen on a free transfer from Chelsea.
But claims Xavi Hernandez is also keen on signing Kounde to create a new defensive partnership.
The Frenchman has become one of Europe’s top centre-backs after some fine performances for club and country.
And Sevilla feel Kounde should be selling for around £65m this summer.
Alessandro set to stay at Inter
Chelsea and Tottenham target Alessandro Bastoni plans to stay at Inter Milan.
The Italy centre-back, 23, has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.
The Blues want him to help plug the gap left by Real Madrid newboy Antonio Rudiger. Spurs boss and former Inter gaffer Antonio Conte is also after reinforcements in his backline.
And both English clubs will have been heartened by Inter chief executive Giuseppe Marotta indicating this week they are ready to sell a defender to help balance their books.
He told Radio Rai: “It’s certainly easier to replace a centre-back than a striker.
“We will probably be forced to sell someone in that position.”
But those hopes appear to have been dashed with an update from transfer expert . He quoted Bastoni’s agent Tullio Tinti in a tweet.
It said: “Bastoni will stay at Inter next season as we are used to respecting contracts.”
Good Luk on your birthday
Romelu Lukaku reportedly wished Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi happy birthday before Chelsea lost to Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The Blues lost 3-1 to Real in the European competition.
And prior to the game Lukaku called Inzaghi to speak about a return to Italy and to wish the Inter boss happy birthday, the Daily Mail reported.
Makelele wants Congo job
Ex-Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele has declared his aim to become Congo's national coach.
The France legend, 49, has recently been back at Stamford Bridge as a youth mentor and has also been an ambassador for DR Congo's FA.
Former Real Madrid star Makele was born in the African country.
Congo have just sacked national coach Hector Cuper following defeats in Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Gabon and Sudan.
'Chelsea target' Kotchap joins Saints
Southampton have won the race for Armel Bella-Kotchap despite the VfL Bochum defender being linked with Tottenham, Chelsea, and Manchester City.
The 20-year-old German has reportedly signed a four-year deal with the Saints.
The Under-21 international helped Bochum into the Bundesliga two seasons ago before making 26 top-flight appearances last term.
Maatsen on Feyenoord shortlist
Feyenoord have reportedly agreed a deal for Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen.
The Holland Under-21 star is set to depart Stamford Bridge again this summer after loans with Charlton and Coventry.
But Voetbal International say the 20-year-old is just one option being considered by the Dutch giants as they prepare to sell Holland international Tyrell Malacia.
Other options beside Maatsen include Bayer Leverkusen's Daley Sinkgraven and Twente ace Joshua Brenet.
Bastoni ready to snub Chelsea
Chelsea and Tottenham target Alessandro Bastoni plans to stay at Inter Milan.
The Italy centre-back, 23, has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.
The Blues want him to help plug the gap left by Real Madrid newboy Antonio Rudiger. Spurs boss and former Inter gaffer Antonio Conte is also after reinforcements in his backline.
And both English clubs will have been heartened by Inter chief executive Giuseppe Marotta indicating this week they are ready to sell a defender to help balance their books.
He told Radio Rai: "It's certainly easier to replace a centre-back than a striker.
"We will probably be forced to sell someone in that position."
But those hopes appear to have been dashed with an update from transfer expert . He quoted Bastoni's agent Tullio Tinti in a tweet.
It said: "Bastoni will stay at Inter next season as we are used to respecting contracts."