CHELSEA are ramping up their interest to sign Inter defender Milan Skriniar this summer.
The Blues will reportedly submit a cash-offer as well as adding Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s services to the deal.
And Skriniar is not the only defensive minded player Chelsea are hoping to lure to Stamford Bridge as they are poised to launch an offer for Sevilla ace Jules Kounde too.
Meanwhile, legendary transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has tweeted that the Blues are leading the race to sign talented Chicago goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina ahead of Real Madrid.
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Chelsea consider transfer swoop
Chelsea are considering a swoop for Wolves wing-back Rayan Ait-Nouri.
Ait-Nouri would provide competition and cover for Ben Chilwell in the left wing-back slot at Stamford Bridge.
Ait-Nouri would provide competition and cover for Ben Chilwell in the left wing-back slot at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea and England ace Chilwell spent six-months of the recent campaign out with a cruciate ligament injury.
Ait-Nouri meanwhile played 27 games in all competitions for Wolves, helping Bruno Lage’s side to a 10th-place finish in the Premier League.
And his form has led to the Blues considering whether to make a move.
Ait-Nouri has played 51 times in total for Wolves after signing from French club Angers in October 2020, initially on loan.
Kante withdraws from France squad
N’Golo Kante has been forced to withdraw from the French squad ahead of this evening’s Nations League clash with Croatia.
The 31-year-old Chelsea midfielder has been struggling with a knee injury, and has returned to Cobham for treatment.
Kante played the full 90 minutes of France’s defeat to Denmark ten days ago, but has since missed the meeting with Austria and a first game against the Croatians.
The Blues star was hampered by niggling injuries throughout last season, and was only able to make a total of 26 appearances in the Premier League.
Breaking: Blues extend Gilmour’s contract
Chelsea have exercised the option to extend Billy Gilmour’s contract by 12 months.
The 21-year-old Scot’s deal at Stamford Bridge now runs until 2024.
Gilmour spent last season on loan at Norwich City, and returns hoping for further first team opportunities in south-west London.
The former Rangers youngster has made 22 appearances for Chelsea, but only five since Thomas Tuchel took charge.
Alonso ‘confirms plans’ to leave
Marcos Alonso has reiterated his desire to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
Fabrizio Romano reports that the Spaniard is desperate to depart Chelsea in order to join Barcelona.
The left-back has already agreed personal terms with the LaLiga giants, and it’s now up to the club to agree a fee with Chelsea.
Alonso, 31, has scored 29 goals and provided 23 assists in 212 appearances for the Blues.
Dembele deal edging even closer
Ousmane Dembele will soon be unveiled as a Chelsea player.
That’s according to Spanish outlet Sport (via Sports Witness), who report that ‘everything seems to indicate’ that the Barcelona forward will soon be moving to Stamford Bridge.
The 25-year-old is out of contract at the Nou Camp this summer, and will depart on a free transfer – just five years after joining for €105m.
The Frenchman’s time with the LaLiga giants has been hampered by injuries; in 149 appearances in all competitions, he scored 32 goals and provided 34 assists.
No Blues deal for Hakimi
Chelsea are unlikely to sign Paris Saint-Germain right-back Achraf Hakimi this summer.
Thomas Tuchel admitted he is an admirer of the Moroccan international when the Blues were first linked with a bid for the defender a year ago.
Reports of a move for Hakimi have resurfaced recently, particularly in the wake of rumours suggesting Real Madrid could move for Reece James.
However, transfers expert Fabrizio Romano is adamant that no talks have taken place.
“Chelsea wanted Achraf Hakimi a year ago, and certainly he has always been high on the list of Thomas Tuchel, who is a big fan of Hakimi,” he said for Caught Offside.
“So far, Paris Saint-Germain have assured that they have not received any proposals.”
Good morning Chelsea fans
Chelsea are on the verge of a deal for US keeper Gabriel Slonina, according to reports.
Fabrizio Romano has tweeted the Blues are leading the race over Real Madrid – with an £8million fee agreed.
The Italian journalist wrote: ‘Gabriel Slonina deal update. Chelsea are now really close to signing the talented goalkeeper, they are pushing after Real Madrid bid rejected – talks are in progress with Chelsea to get the deal done soon.’
“€10m fee expected by Chicago for 2004-born GK Slonina,” Romano added.
Sevilla are playing hard ball over a fee for Jules Koundé.
The LaLiga club know Chelsea’s desperation in finding defensive cover, after losing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
And reports in Spain say they are looking at a £55million fee for the French defender now.
The centre back has been on Chelsea’s radar since last summer, with the Blues close to a deal before last season.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek might find himself surplus to requirements this summer at Stamford Bridge.
But the midfielder may have a suitor in Serie A giants Inter Milan.
The England star is being chased by the Italians, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Fabregas anniversary
It was eight years ago today that Cesc Fabregas signed for Chelsea.
In his time with the Blues, the Spaniard appeared 198 times for the club and scored 22 goals.
He also won the Premier League twice, as well as a UEFA Europa League, League Cup and FA Cup.
Chelsea close to keeper deal
Chelsea are on the verge of a deal for US keeper Gabriel Slonina, according to reports.
Fabrizio Romano has tweeted the Blues are leading the race over Real Madrid – with an £8million fee agreed.
The Italian journalist wrote: ‘Gabriel Slonina deal update. Chelsea are now really close to signing the talented goalkeeper, they are pushing after Real Madrid bid rejected – talks are in progress with Chelsea to get the deal done soon.’
“€10m fee expected by Chicago for 2004-born GK Slonina,” Romano added.
Nkunku blow
Christopher Nkunku will stay with RB Leipzig this summer, according to reports.
Leipziger Volkszeitung claim that despite the Blues registering their interest in the French talent, the Germans are more likely to tie him down to a new deal.
Nkunku has been watched by Chelsea scouts all season.
Kimpembe clue
Presnel Kimpembe has revealed a clue about his future – after being linked with Chelsea.
“I said that I was reaching 27 years of age and that my next contract would be decisive,” the PSG defender said in a press conference before his country met Croatia last week.
“I want to be able to know what the project of the club will look like. I didn’t say anything wrong.
“I joined the club when I was nine or 10 years old. I think it’s a legitimate question to ask my club about the future project and what role I am going to be given.
“At the moment, I am focused on the France team and on tomorrow’s match.”
Kounde fee
Sevilla are playing hard ball over a fee for Jules Koundé.
The LaLiga club know Chelsea’s desperation in finding defensive cover, after losing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
And reports in Spain say they are looking at a £55million fee for the French defender now.
The centre back has been on Chelsea’s radar since last summer, with the Blues close to a deal before last season.
Kounde still has two years left on his deal at Sevilla, who want mega money for their asset.
James defends rival
Reece James leapt to the defence of Trent Alexander-Arnold and his defensive ability.
The Chelsea defender was quizzed about the Liverpool star’s attacking prowess sometimes leaving his team vulnerable.
But James wasn’t having any of it.
“I make mistakes as well. I gave away a penalty against Hungary so we are both still learning our trade,” the 22-year-old said.
“Liverpool have 95 per cent of the ball and he defends less than I have to. People have a lot of stuff to say and don’t really know the game. Trent is a great player.”
Chelsea ‘confident’ on Dembele
The Blues are reportedly confident of striking a deal with Ousmane Dembele, according to reports.
The French winger has decided to leave Barcelona when his contract expires this month, and is available on a free transfer.
And football.london claims Chelsea are convinced they will be able to secure the World Cup winner’s signature.
The report adds that positive signals have come out of his camp.
Koulibaly’s huge offer
Chelsea target Kalidou Koulibaly is reportedly tempted by the Blues’ huge offer.
The giant Napoli centre half is a target for both the Blues and London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
The West Londoners have stolen a march on Spurs by tempting Koulibally with a £165,000-per-week contract, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Inter fancy Loftus-Cheek
Ruben Loftus-Cheek might find himself surplus to requirements this summer at Stamford Bridge.
But the midfielder may have a suitor in Serie A giants Inter Milan.
The England star is being chased by the Italians, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Inter expect Roberto Gagliardini to depart this summer, and are looking for a replacement – with Loftus-Cheek said to fit the bill.
Gilmour gets praised
Football legend Kenny Daglish has leapt to Billy Gilmour’s defence after he was slammed for his performances for Scotland.
Daglish said: “It wasn’t his best game for his country [against Ukraine]. But his performance didn’t merit some of the negative reaction, which was way over the top.
“Steve Clarke left Billy on the bench against Armenia, and we produced a decent performance to win the Nations League tie 2-0. He came off the bench yesterday, but could do little to prevent a sore result.
“Now, it’s all about what Billy does in the future. There is no doubt he has the ability and, just as importantly, the correct attitude. So I expect his career to continue on an upward trajectory.”
Bremer transfer battle
Chelsea are reportedly ready to fight Tottenham to sign Torino defender Gleison Bremer.
The Brazilian centre-back, 25, has caught the eye with his impressive displays in Italy this term.
And La Stampa are now claiming that Bremer is the man that they want to add to their ranks at Stamford Bridge.
However, Antonio Conte’s Spurs are also interested in the former Atletico Mineiro ace and a £34m bidding war could be about to start between the two rivals.
Matic to Roma edges closer
Nemanja Matic is on the cusp of becoming a Roma player.
The Serbian international will undergo a medical tomorrow in Italy before being unveiled by the Serie A club.
He will join them on a one-year deal with the option to extend, according to Fabrizio Romano.
PSG chase Lewandowksi transfer
Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly entered the transfer chase to sign Robert Lewandowski.
Lewandowski has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona ever since.
However, L’Equipe now claims that PSG have identified him as a top target.
And they are allegedly determined to win the race to secure his signature.
Man United are also said to be tracking the striker.
James defends England pal
Reece James has leapt to the defence of England team-mate Trent Alexander-Arnold amid criticism of his defensive abilities.
Jame said: “I make mistakes as well. I gave away a penalty against Hungary so we are both still learning our trade.
“Liverpool have 95% of the ball and he defends less than I have to. People have a lot of stuff to say and don’t really know the game. Trent is a great player.”
Lukaku warning issued to Inter
Antonio Cassano has warned Inter Milan not to take back Romelu Lukaku.
He told his Bobo TV stream: “I wouldn’t take him back.
“He said he was going to his dream team, earning 15 million euros. Now, however, in London he doesn’t kick a ball and would like to return to Italy.
“Inter’s problem, given that Dybala is coming, is that if they get Lukaku they have to sell Lautaro. Again, I would not sign Lukaku.
“Also because first of all you have to pay for him, but then you have to see the reaction of the fans: if he scores two goals per game, okay, but otherwise the situation becomes quite difficult.
“Lukaku has to think about it. At this point, I say he stays at Chelsea.”
Chelsea and Tottenham chase defender
Chelsea are ready to rival Tottenham in the transfer race to sign Torino defender Gleison Bremer.
However, Bayern Munich and AC Milan are also tracking Bremer, according to Milan News.
And he won’t come cheap as Torino will take no less than £34m for the centre-back, the report adds.
Chelsea submit offer for keeper
Chelsea have reportedly tabled a huge offer for Chicago Fire goalie Gabriel Slonina.
Real Madrid were closing in on the Ukrainian goalkeeper, but Chelsea have entered the fray with a large offer, according to Relevo.
But the Blues have their work cut out convincing the 18-year-old to turn down Los Blancos who he wants to join, according to his agent, the report added.
Reece James speaks on versatility
Reece James has revealed how versatile he can be on the pitch, deploying various positions.
He added: “I like getting forward, attacking, creating chances and scoring goals.
“But at the same time, my job is to defend, keep clean sheets and help the team. I like the balance between both.
“When I play a back three and I’m a wing-back, I’m a lot higher. I have more freedom to roam and do what I want.
“But when I play in a back four it’s more set as a defender and it’s a bit harder to get forward.
“When I was young I was a striker, scoring lots of goals, then I moved to midfield, then defence. I like to attack.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
