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    Chelsea ‘in talks with Paris Saint-Germain and Man City to sign Kimpembe and Ake’ to join Koulibaly in new-look defence

    CHELSEA are close to signing THREE big-money centre-backs.PSG’s Presnel Kimpembe and Manchester City ace Nathan Ake are ‘in talks’ to follow in Napoli star Kalidou Koulibaly, who has a medical on Thursday.
    Chelsea’s interest in Manchester City defender Nathan Ake is said to have reached the advanced stageCredit: Getty
    PSG’s France central defender Presnel Kimpembe could cost Chelsea £34mCredit: Rex
    City attacker Raheem Sterling arrived on Wednesday for £50million as the first new recruit for Chelsea owner Todd Boehly.
    Now boss Thomas Tuchel is switching to defence for a £100m-plus triple raid.
    Senegal skipper Koulibaly’s £34m deal is all but complete and Fabrizio Romano reckons negotiations over Tuchel’s two other ‘priority’ targets have reached an advanced stage.
    PSG have reportedly accepted around the same for 28-cap Frenchman Kimpembe, 26, and City want £45m for 27-year-old Holland powerhouse Ake.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES LATEST .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Raheem Sterling SIGNS, Koulibaly medical TOMORROW, Kimpembe lined up next
    Tuchel has lost Andreas Christensen and last season’s star central defender Antonio Rudiger on free transfers.
    And he is also keen on finding a long-term successor to Thiago Silva, 37, whose contract expires in June 2023.
    Wing-backs Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso could also depart this summer.
    But Tuchel is now on the brink of sorting out his main problem position – the middle of the backline.
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    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST NEW CUSTOMER SIGN UP DEALS
    Juventus and Holland hero Matthijs de Ligt was a prime option but appears likely to join Bayern Munich or Barcelona.
    And although France star Jules Kounde has been continually linked with Chelsea and Arsenal this summer, Sevilla have stood firm.
    The same two London giants were also linked with Torino’s Gleison Bremer.
    Instead, though, Tuchel is on the brink of landing Koulibaly, Kimpembe and Ake. More

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    Kalidou Koulibaly flying to London and will complete medical on THURSDAY as Chelsea agree £34m transfer with Napoli

    CHELSEA are on the verge of securing their second summer signing with Kalidou Koulibaly heading to London to complete his medical.The Blues are closing in on a £34million transfer for the Napoli central defender as they look to plug the holes left by Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
    Kalidou Koulibaly is jetting to London and will undergo his Chelsea medical on ThursdayCredit: Getty
    Koulibaly, 31, only has one year left on his contract in Italy but the Serie A club, for whom he has played over 300 times, are ready to sell after initially rejecting Chelsea’s first offer of £27m.
    However, after the Premier League giants increased that, the Senegal star is due to earn about £8m a year – £150,000 a week – at Stamford Bridge.
    He will have a medical on Thursday and will then have to complete his paperwork before a decision is made on whether he meets Thomas Tuchel and the rest of Chelsea squad in Los Angeles or Las Vegas.
    He could feature in his first game for the Blues in Vegas on Saturday when they take on Mexican outfit Club America.
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CHELSEA.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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    And should everything go as planned, he will become the second arrival following confirmation that Raheem Sterling has signed from Manchester City for £50m.
    The 27-year-old England forward arrives on a five-year contract, with the option of a further year, in a deal worth up to £50m.
    Sterling, who will earn £300k per week, is understood to be training with the squad today having completed his own medical in London before jetting out and the forward could also feature against Club America.
    Both Koulibaly and Sterling are the first signings of new owner Todd Boehly’s era at Stamford having taken over from Roman Abramovich earlier this year.
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    American businessman Boehly played a key role in both deals, and is working to bring in more new faces to rebuild Tuchel’s squad.
    Skipper Cesar Azpilicueta and full-back Marcos Alonso could also be departing, but have been told more signings need to be made before they leave.
    Chelsea remain linked with defenders Jules Kounde from Sevilla and Presnel Kimpembe from PSG. More

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    ‘I can’t wait to get going’ – Chelsea announce £50m signing of Man City attacker Raheem Sterling on five-year-contract

    CHELSEA have officially announced the signing of Raheem Sterling in a £50million deal.The 27-year-old joins the Blues on a five-year contract, with the option of a further year.
    Raheem Sterling has been unveiled as a Chelsea playerCredit: Getty
    Sterling confirmed he was leaving Manchester City earlier today after posting an emotional goodbye message to the club.
    And now his move to Stamford Bridge has been rubber-stamped.
    He joins Chelsea with bags of experience under his belt – as well as four Premier League winners medals.
    The England ace has jetted to the USA to join up with his new teammates on their pre-season tour after becoming the first signing of the Todd Boehly era.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES LATEST .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Raheem Sterling says goodbye to Man City fans, Koulibaly DONE DEAL
    Sterling shared a three-minute video on social media documenting his highlights at the Etihad, and wrote a lengthy statement as he waved goodbye to the Etihad.
    Defender Kalidou Koulibaly is expected to follow Sterling through the doors at Stamford Bridge.
    The Napoli centre-back is close to sealing a £34m switch to the Blues.
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    Chelsea’s £35m defensive transfer target Kalidou Koulibaly was on brink of move to NORWICH – for just £7m

    KALIDOU KOULIBALY looks to be finally moving to the Premier League – a transfer which has been seven years in the making.Chelsea are closing in on a £35million transfer for the Napoli central defender as they look to plug the holes left by Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
    Norwich were on the brink of signing incoming Chelsea ace Kalidou Koulibaly seven years ago and here’s how he might have looked in a Canaries kit
    Although an English record for an over 30s player, the deal will still be good business for new owner Todd Boely, who is also looking to tie up a deal for Manchester City centre-back Nathan Ake.
    It seems as though every Premier League club has shown an interest in Koulibaly at some stage over the years.
    But the nearest he got to a switch to England was in the summer 2015, just 12 months after he moved to Napoli from Belgian side Genk for £7m.
    Incredibly, Napoli agreed his £6.9m transfer to Norwich.
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES LATEST .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Raheem Sterling says goodbye to Man City fans, Koulibaly DONE DEAL
    Koulibaly, who had struggled in his first Serie A campaign, was also happy to complete the move to Norfolk. 
    The only reason he stayed in southern Italy was that Napoli failed to get either of their two targets to replace him.
    Now, Koulibaly, 31, who has one year left on his contract, has made 317 appearances for Napoli, who are ready to sell but they turned down Chelsea’s first offer of £27m.
    At Stamford Bridge, Koulibaly will earn about £8m a year – £150,000 a week.
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    He will clearly relish the prospect of finally starring in the Premier League and playing in front of Senegal international team-mate Edu Mendy.
    He has suffered a couple of ropey seasons in Italy, not just in that first campaign but also a couple of years ago.
    Nevertheless, he is still considered as among the top four defenders in Serie A.
    In January 2021, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp desperately wanted to sign him.
    Yet club sporting director Michael Edwards refused to sanction such a massive transfer with the Reds still counting the financial cost of Covid.
    Instead, Liverpool signed Ben Davies from Preston for £2m. This situation frustrated Klopp and his relationship with Edwards became fractured.
    Koulibaly was a rock for Napoli last seasonCredit: Getty
    In defence for Napoli last season, Koulibaly was a rock. They missed the player badly when he headed to the Afcon with Senegal.
    During his time away, Napoli’s Serie A title bid wobbled as they won four, lost three and drew one of their matches.
    Ultimately, their hopes of winning the League ended and they finished third behind AC Milan and Inter Milan. 
    Understandably, Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti does not want to lose such an experienced player.
    With club captain Lorenzo Insigne moving to Toronto in MLS, Koulibaly was due to be handed the armband but his time at the newly-named Diego Maradona Stadium is now coming to an end.
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12px;max-height:75px;overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:2;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1px;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}ON THE BRINK .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I’m living off green juice after my UC was slashed over a simple mistake
    In eight years, Koulibaly only has a 2020 Coppa Italia winners’ medal to show for his efforts.
    He will certainly look for a better haul under Thomas Tuchel at Chelsea. More

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    Where Sterling and Koulibaly fit in Chelsea wage structure as Blues close in on £85m double transfer swoop

    KALIDOU KOULIBALY and Raheem Sterling are on the verge of joining Chelsea as Thomas Tuchel prepares to bolster his squad.Sterling is set to join for a deal worth up to £50million, while Napoli defender Koulibaly is expected to arrive for £35m.
    Kalidou Koulibaly is close to joining ChelseaCredit: Getty
    Sterling has said farewell to Man City as he prepares to move to Stamford BridgeCredit: AP
    Koulibaly, 31, will be Chelsea’s first defensive acquisition since the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
    And Sterling will add to Tuchel’s firepower upfront after Romelu Lukaku departed for Inter Milan on loan.
    According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Koulibaly will pen a contract worth £162,000 a week at Stamford Bridge.
    This will make him Chelsea’s fifth highest paid player.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES LATEST .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Raheem Sterling says goodbye to Man City fans, Koulibaly DONE DEAL
    But Sterling is set for a whopping £300,000 deal, according to The Athletic.
    This would make him the club’s second highest earner.
    Following Lukaku’s exit, Kai Havertz is the Blues’ top earner on a £310,000-a-week contract.
    N’Golo Kante, linked with Arsenal, is in the final year of his £290,000-a-week deal – making him third behind Havertz and Sterling.
    How Sterling and Koulibaly fair among Chelsea’s top earners
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    German flop Timo Werner pockets £270k a week, while Ben Chilwell is their highest paid defender on £190k.
    As quoted by Romain Collet-Gaudin, Koulibaly admitted on a potential move to Stamford Bridge: “I’ll confirm that later, but it’s on the right track.”
    Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti has also hinted that Koulibaly could be on his way out.
    In a fan Q&A on Instagram, the Italian said: “I prefer Koulibaly to be with us always, especially as he would be captain this season.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}’WHAT A RIDE’ .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Sterling posts emotional goodbye to Man City as he CONFIRMS Chelsea move
    “If he chooses to leave, we will never stop thanking him for all the help he has given us.
    “If he wants to choose something else, we wish him all the best, because he deserves it.”
    Nathan Ake has also been linked with a move back to Stamford Bridge worth at least £41m from Manchester City, having left Chelsea for Bournemouth in 2017. More

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    Raheem Sterling posts emotional goodbye to Man City as he CONFIRMS £50m Chelsea transfer before joining squad

    RAHEEM STERLING has posted an emotional goodbye to Manchester City as he prepares to join Chelsea in a £50million transfer.Sterling, 27, agreed personal terms with the Blues last week and will sign a five-year contract at Stamford Bridge, with the option of a further 12 months.
    Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Raheem SterlingCredit: Getty
    He has now shared a three-minute video on social media documenting his highlights at the Etihad.
    And he added a lengthy caption, saying: “Seven seasons, eleven major trophies, a lifetime of memories.
    “To the coaching staff who have played a massive role in my development over the years, to my teammates who have become more than just those I share a pitch with, to the backroom staff, to the office staff, to the fans who have tirelessly supported the team, and to everyone involved with Manchester City, my respect for you couldn’t be greater.
    “What a ride it’s been.
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read More On Chelsea.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES LATEST .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Raheem Sterling says goodbye to Man City fans, Koulibaly DONE DEAL
    “I am thankful for the ups and the downs. As it’s the downs that have, at times, tested my strength and resolve, and enabled me to stand here in front of you as the best possible version of myself.
    “I arrived in Manchester a 20-year-old, today, I leave as a man.
    “Thank you for your endless support. It’s been an honour to wear the shirt of Manchester City.”
    Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel was eager to get the deal done in time to book Sterling a ticket on last Saturday’s pre-season flight to Los Angeles.
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    SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY

    And while that was not possible, the Blues are hoping he will be able to join up with his new team-mates on tour having undergone his medical in London.
    Tuchel wants Sterling to join his squad for the rest of their two-week pre-season tour to the USA.
    Chelsea have fixtures pencilled in against Mexico’s Club America in Las Vegas, MLS outfit Charlotte FC in Charlotte, and Arsenal in Orlando.
    SunSport exclusively revealed last month that the Blues had made signing Sterling a priority.
    He arrives with bags of experience under his belt and four Premier League winners medals from his time at Manchester City.
    The forward – who signs for an initial £47.5m with the possibility of it rising to £50m – had been into the final year of his contract at City and was willing to move in order to play regular football ahead of the World Cup later this year.
    The signings of Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez at the Etihad will only heighten the competition for places in Pep Guardiola’s side.
    Three Lions hero Sterling is now targeting Champions League glory with Chelsea – and the prestigious Ballon d’Or – after turning down a new deal at City.
    Boehly had been targeting a statement signing and gets that in Sterling.
    And there could be more to come with the Blues sensationally linked with both Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar.
    Tuchel is in need of some extra firepower up top after last season’s top scorer Romelu Lukaku was shipped off to Inter Milan on loan. More

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    How Chelsea’s five defensive transfer targets compare as Blues close in on Ake and Koulibaly double swoop

    CHELSEA go into a new season with a new owner… and a new-look defence.The Blues have already lost Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer, with Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso expected to follow shortly.

    With Thiago Silva turning 38 within a month of the 2022-23 season, Todd Boehly and Thomas Tuchel are all-too aware they are in dire need of defensive reinforcements.
    And Chelsea have been linked with countless big-name defenders too.
    Manchester City star Nathan Ake is believed to be on the brink of a £45million return to Stamford Bridge, with Kalidou Koulibaly following in a £34m deal.
    But the West Londoners have been seriously linked with a hatful of other centre-backs, including Bayern Munich target Matthijs de Ligt, Sevilla ace Jules Kounde and Paris Saint-Germain star Presnel Kimpembe.
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15px;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-16djrfc{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1skzs3j{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The 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STORIES.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES LATEST .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Raheem Sterling says goodbye to Man City fans, Koulibaly DONE DEAL
    Ake and Koulibaly appear to be the chosen two – but have Tuchel, Boehly and Co made the right decision?
    SunSport has taken a look at the 2021-22 stats across all competitions to find out…
    Long story short, they can’t go wrong – with their five-man shortlist boasting impressive numbers.
    However, each player has their own specialist area, so the Blues’ tactical team will need to assess exactly what they need to compensate for losing Rudiger, Christensen and Co.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST NEW CUSTOMER SIGN UP DEALS

    For example, Juventus star De Ligt is almost unbeatable off the dribble – only allowing one opponent to pass him every TEN games – while also coming out top in clearances at 3.3 per 90 minutes.
    If tackling success and ability on the ball is Chelsea’s top priority, then PSG ace Kimpembe is the man, boasting a 95.2 per cent passing success rate while completing a superb 62.3 per cent of his tackles.
    Kimpembe is also has the highest aerial duels success rate (67 per cent) of the five.
    However, ex-Chelsea man Ake wins a ridiculous three aerial duels per game at nearly as high a clip as the Frenchman at 66 per cent, while also going the longest between goals – at 115.1 minutes per goal conceded.
    Kounde – a long-term target of Tuchel – had the most clean sheets in 2021-22 with 16, but also played the most matches (44) – while sitting in the middle of the pack for aerial success.
    But the Sevilla man ranks bottom in tackling success, interceptions and being beaten by opposing forwards.
    Koulibaly is the least-accomplished passer, but still boasts an 87 per cent success rate, while ranking level with Kounde as the most-beatable defender off the dribble.
    He also ranks dead-last in tackling success rate – but leads the pack in blocks per 90 minutes, at 0.9 per match.
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    So every player has their up side and all have their drawbacks – but which will Chelsea choose?
    Ahead of a huge season as they target the Premier League title, look to go one better in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup – having lost to Liverpool in both finals on penalties – and take part in the Champions League, they can’t afford to get it wrong. More

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    Chelsea to target Presnel Kimpembe transfer after Koulibaly and Ake deals as Tuchel begins to mould new-look defence

    CHELSEA are looking to sign Paris Saint-Germain centre back Presnel Kimpembe, according to reports.Blues boss Thomas Tuchel is eager to strengthen his defence this summer following the departures of Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger, who left the club to join Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively.
    Chelsea are targeting a move for KimpembeCredit: Reuters
    The club are already close to completing a deal for Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly, who is expected to sign a three-year contract in the next few days.
    Nathan Ake is also set to join in a sensational return to Stamford Bridge, five years after leaving for Bournemouth.
    The Dutchman has already agreed personal terms, but Chelsea still have to strike a deal with Manchester City for the £45million-rated centre back.
    And now Tuchel has added another defender to his transfer wishlist.
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read More on 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    According to The Telegraph, the Chelsea boss is keen on signing Kimpembe after working alongside him at PSG for two seasons.
    The 26-year-old Frenchman has made 220 appearances for the Parisians since making his senior debut in 2014.
    During that time he also helped the club to six Ligue 1 titles.
    He is regularly used as a centre back but can also play as a left-back, meaning he could fit into the squad alongside Koulibaly and Ake even if Tuchel decides to switch to a back four.
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    But, he only recently became a top target for Chelsea chiefs.
    Matthijs de Ligt was the club’s priority target, however, Bayern Munich are now edging closer to completing a deal.
    Chelsea are also at risk of losing club captain Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso, which increases the importance of signing defensive reinforcements this summer.
    Both players have one year remaining on their current contracts.
    Barcelona are said to be considering a swoop, but they will have to meet the Blues’ asking price before approaching the duo directly. More