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    Strakosha ‘completely honoured’ by Chelsea interest, Lewandowski targeted, Demiral-Jorginho swap – transfer latest

    POTENTIAL Kepa replacement Thomas Strakosha says he feels ‘completely honoured’ to be linked with a club like Chelsea.The former Lazio goalkeeper says it is “a dream” for him to play in the Premier League.
    Meanwhile, the Blues are still prepared to enter the bidding for Robert Lewandowski as the saga of the Pole’s transfer to Barcelona drags on.
    And a potential swap deal with defender Merih Demiral heading to Stamford Bridge and Jorginho joining Juventus has been mooted.
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    Out of this Strakosh-phere
    Ex-Lazio goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha had declared it’s a dream to be linked with Chelsea.
    The Blues are considering making a swoop for the Albanian free agent as a replacement for Kepa if he leaves.
    And Strakosha is over the moon.
    He told Fabrizio Romano: “I’m really honoured to be linked with a top club like Chelsea, it’s a dream.
    “I’m dreaming of Premier League since I was a kid.”
    Alonso spotted on luxury yacht
    Marcos Alonso is enjoying the start of his summer holidays by relaxing on a luxury yacht in Ibiza.
    The Chelsea star is letting his hair down alongside glamorous pals including Miss Italia 2019 Carolina Stramare.
    Dubbed the “Italian Megan Fox”, Carolina donned a red bikini as she relaxed onboard.
    Not content with just sunbathing on the boat, Alonso and another pal took a jetski out for a spin in the glorious sunshine.

    Lukaku’s keen on Inter return
    Romelu Lukaku has a great desire to return to Inter Milan, according to the club’s CEO.
    Inter’s chief executive Alessandro Antonello said of Lukaku: “There is a great desire of the player to return.
    “The economic and financial feasibility must be checked and some technical problems must be solved.
    “We will try to do it in the necessary time.”
    Chelsea line up Lewandowksi transfer
    Chelsea are lining up Robert Lewandowski as a back-up target for Gabriel Jesus after Arsenal took a huge step towards signing the Brazilian, according to reports.
    Chelsea had hoped to sign Jesus, 25, to solve their centre forward woes, with Timo Werner also struggling for goals following his 2020 transfer.
    In fact, the German is regularly forced out wide by Thomas Tuchel, with Kai Havertz leading the line as a false nine.
    Tuchel is desperate for an elite striker to finally solve his forward dilemma, with the boss keen on his wealth of Premier League experience and versatility.
    But with Arsenal leading the race for the Manchester City star, Tuchel has turned his attention to Lewandowski as a back-up option, according to Christian Falk.
    Chelsea must offload Romelu Lukaku
    Chelsea should get rid of striker Romelu Lukaku and ‘send him off in a cab’ back to Inter Milan this summer, according to talkSPORT’s Simon Jordan.
    The former Crystal palace claimed getting a £20m loan fee for the striker would be a good deal, arguing
    He told talkSPORT: “It’s interesting that they are going to put him out on loan and want a £20m loan fee because it means they can keep him on their balance sheet and still demand money for him.
    “So if Chelsea can keep him on their balance sheet and put him out on loan and get £20m for him, they are actually making a monetary transaction that makes financial sense.
    “In 18 months time or a year’s time, Inter might then find themselves in a better position and Chelsea might be able to punt Lukaku out for £70m or £80m, and they will actually make money from a transaction.
    “So from a footballing point of view, if Tuchel doesn’t want him then it’s a no-brainer, he’s got to go.
    ““He’s already made his position clear, he’s already virtue signalled his way back to the Italian fans by telling them, ‘I would like to come home one day’ – well, off you go then, we’ll send you there in a cab!”
    Chelsea enter Lewandowski transfer race
    Chelsea have thrown their hat into the ring to sign Robert Lewandowski, according to German outlet Bild.
    But the Blues reportedly find themselves behind Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona in the race to sign the striker.
    Lewandowski is said to be already in talks with both PSG and Barcelona but reportedly prefers a move to Catalonia, with Mundo Deportivo reporting that the Pole has already signed a three-year contract around £175,000-a-week with Barca, worth £27million in total.
    Optimistic for 2023?
    Chelsea have a horror start to the year, with a home clash to City on Jan 2.
    An away day at Liverpool is then sandwiched in between a home game with Crystal Palace.
    February sees Tuchel take his side to Spurs for a return fixture on the 25th.
    Chelsea also take on Leeds and Everton at home – which will see Lampard set for a Stamford Bridge return – in March.
    April is another busy period with six games crammed in, as Chelsea play United on the 22nd and Arsenal a week later, both away.
    Chelsea also play Brentford at home in between meaning they face three games in seven days.
    May brings a close to the campaign with Chelsea travelling to Bournemouth on the 6th and Forrest at home on the 13th.
    A trip to champions City follows on the 20th before the Blues end their season on the 28th at home to Newcastle.
    Chelsea before the new year
    With the World Cup kicking off in Qatar on November 21, Chelsea play only two league matches that month.
    They host Arsenal on the 5th and then travel to Newcastle on the 12th.
    The World Cup is due to end on December 18 and only eight days later the Blues return to league action.
    They host Bournemouth on Boxing Day before a New Year’s Eve trip to Nottingham Forest.
    A tough start for Tuchel’s lads
    Chelsea face old manager Frank Lampard in their opening game – amid a horror start to the season.
    Thomas Tuchel’s side travel to Lampard’s Everton on August 6 to kick-off their Premier League campaign.
    It proved an unhappy hunting ground for the Blues last season after losing 1-0 to the Merseysiders in May.
    Chelsea will then welcome rivals Tottenham to Stamford Bridge in their second league match on the 13th.
    The pick of the month in September is a home game against Liverpool on the 17th, with whom they lost to finals to this year.
    October proves a hectic month with six games in total, including a home clash with Manchester United on the 22nd.
    Three mobile resume shirt deal
    Chelsea’s £120million shirt sponsorship deal with Three has resumed following Todd Boehly’s takeover from Roman Abramovich.
    The Blues are now ready to get back to normality, with manager Thomas Tuchel finally set to be backed in the transfer window.

    The mobile phone company suspended their agreement with the club in March after former owner Abramovich was hit by UK sanctions over his links to Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
    With Boehly running the show following Abramovich’s exit, Three are now back in business with the Premier League giants.
    They will grace the front of Chelsea’s kit for next season, which is due to be released shortly.
    Want fries with that?
    Manchester United and Tottenham have been joined by Chelsea in the battle to sign Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries.
    The Red Devils and Spurs are both priced as 6/1 favourites with Sky Bet, but Chelsea are just behind at 7/1.
    The Dutch international impressed during last summers Euros campaign where the attacking fullback bagged two goals and an assist in Netherlands’ run to the round of 16.
    His solid displays in the Euros earned the 26-year-old a £12m move from PSV to Inter Milan.
    The right wing-back impressed in his first season in Italy, winning the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana, leading to reports of another move this summer.
    Sky Bet odds:

    Manchester United – 6/1
    Tottenham – 6/1
    Chelsea – 7/1
    Bayern Munich – 16/1

    Blues urged to flog striker
    Chelsea should accept £60million for Romelu Lukaku, claims talkSPORT pundit Simon Jordan.
    The Belgian arrived from Inter Milan for £97.5m last summer, but has struggled to fit in Thomas Tuchel’s style of play.
    Speaking about Lukaku’s future, Jordan said: “If they ship him out for £60million, they’ve got no loss on their balance sheet and they can go again with somebody that might actually want to be there and somebody that might actually do what they’re paid to do.
    “He doesn’t really want to be there, so sell him.”
    Blues striker shortlist revealed
    Chelsea have compiled an attacking wishlist, with Romelu Lukaku likely to leave.
    According to the Telegraph, Inter Milan have opened talks with the Blues over bringing the Belgian back to San Siro.
    They add that Raheem Sterling, Ousmane Dembele and Christopher Nkunku are among their top targets.
    While Manchester City ace Gabriel Jesus is claimed to have been offered their way.
    2022-23 Premier League match-ball
    The Premier League have revealed their 2022-23 Nike match-ball – and it’s a stunning retro throwback.
    The fixtures for the upcoming season were released early on Thursday morning.
    And the official Premier League Twitter account followed that up shortly afterwards by sharing two pictures of the new match-ball.
    Nike‘s 2022-23 effort is inspired by the iconic 1992-93 Mitre Pro-Max ball used for the first-ever Prem campaign, even featuring the navy blue, red and gold arrows.

    The Premier League shared a sneak peek of the ball on Twitter, captioned: “Inspired by the first PL season, 30 years ago.
    “The new 2022-23 Nike Flight PL Ball. Out 15 July.”
    Chelsea raid Saints for goalkeeper
    The Blues have signed young Southampton ace Eddie Beach, according to reports.
    According to Football London, Chelsea have beaten off plenty of competition to sign the teenage goalkeeper.
    Beach, 18, was a regular for the Saints’ Under-18s last season.
    Jorginho no longer ‘untouchable’?
    Juventus could offer Merih Demiral to Chelsea in exchange for Jorginho, with the Italian midfielder no longer considered “untouchable”, according to reports.
    Chelsea chief Tuchel has a plan to rebuild and could use Jorginho, 30, as a pawn to land a freebie to help ease his woes.
    The Italy international was considered “untouchable” by Stamford Bridge chiefs and was even tipped for the Ballon d’Or as recently as last year.

    But according to CalcioMercato, Tuchel is happy to move on from the midfielder, who’s hot form cooled late last season.
    And Juventus are set to take advantage by offering a straight swap.
    Demiral, 24, spent last season on loan at Atalanta, but the Serie A side rejected their £15million option to sign the Turkish international permanently.
    The centre-back is not in Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri’s plans.
    The Old Lady boss was set to put Demiral on the transfer market for around £25m.
    Kounde has agreed a deal with Chelsea
    Sevilla defender Jules Kounde has reportedly agreed a five-year deal with Premier League side Chelsea.
    Kounde, 23, has been a long term target for Thomas Tuchel’s team as they look to replace departing key defenders.
    Both Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen are leaving for free and centre-back Kounde seems the perfect fit.
    According to Sport, Kounde has agreed a five-year deal with Chelsea but a fee with Sevilla is yet to be struck.
    Barcelona are the major competition in landing the centre-back.
    Cataluyna Radio claims that Barcelona are in “advanced negotiations” with Sevilla for the French international – but that personal terms have not been agreed with the player.
    Chelsea a ‘realistic destination’ for Nkunku
    Former Blue Glen Johnson reckons that Christopher Nkunku should move to Stamford Bridge after being linked with Chelsea and Manchester United.
    The ex-Chelsea full back spoke to bettingodds.com about the highly-rated midfielder.
    Johnson said: “I believe Chelsea is a more realistic destination than Manchester United if both clubs are genuinely interested.
    “A player going to a top team that’s had a really good season will be looking for Champions League football… I definitely think that’s where these sorts of players look first.
    “If he was to leave RB Leipzig, then I think Chelsea could be a better fit.”
    Optimistic for 2023?
    Chelsea have a horror start to the year, with a home clash to City on Jan 2.
    An away day at Liverpool is then sandwiched in between a home game with Crystal Palace.
    February sees Tuchel take his side to Spurs for a return fixture on the 25th.
    Chelsea also take on Leeds and Everton at home – which will see Lampard set for a Stamford Bridge return – in March.
    April is another busy period with six games crammed in, as Chelsea play United on the 22nd and Arsenal a week later, both away.
    Chelsea also play Brentford at home in between meaning they face three games in seven days.
    May brings a close to the campaign with Chelsea travelling to Bournemouth on the 6th and Forrest at home on the 13th.
    A trip to champions City follows on the 20th before the Blues end their season on the 28th at home to Newcastle.
    Chelsea before the new year
    With the World Cup kicking off in Qatar on November 21, Chelsea play only two league matches that month.
    They host Arsenal on the 5th and then travel to Newcastle on the 12th.
    The World Cup is due to end on December 18 and only eight days later the Blues return to league action.
    They host Bournemouth on Boxing Day before a New Year’s Eve trip to Nottingham Forest.
    A tough start for Tuchel
    Chelsea face old manager Frank Lampard in their opening game – amid a horror start to the season.
    Thomas Tuchel’s side travel to Lampard’s Everton on August 6 to kick-off their Premier League campaign.
    It proved an unhappy hunting ground for the Blues last season after losing 1-0 to the Merseysiders in May.
    Chelsea will then welcome rivals Tottenham to Stamford Bridge in their second league match on the 13th.
    The pick of the month in September is a home game against Liverpool on the 17th, with whom they lost to finals to this year.
    October proves a hectic month with six games in total, including a home clash with Manchester United on the 22nd.
    Chelsea’s Premier League fixtures 2022/23
    Here are your fixtures for the new season, which kicks off away to Everton on Aug 6…

    Blues striker shortlist revealed
    Chelsea have compiled an attacking wishlist, with Romelu Lukaku likely to leave.
    According to the Telegraph, Inter Milan have opened talks with the Blues over bringing the Belgian back to San Siro.
    They add that Raheem Sterling, Ousmane Dembele and Christopher Nkunku are among their top targets.
    While Manchester City ace Gabriel Jesus is claimed to have been offered their way.
    Maatsen to return to Holland?
    Chelsea are in danger of losing ANOTHER defender as young prospect Ian Maatsen is reportedly being eyed up by Feyenoord.
    The 20-year-old left-back made his debut for the Blues under Frank Lampard in 2019 during a 7-1 League Cup win over Grimsby.
    According to Voetbal International, Feyenoord are now eyeing up the possibility of bringing him back to the club – nine years after they let him go as a youngster.
    Maatsen is under contract with Chelsea – with the Blues announcing two years ago that he had penned a new deal which will run until at least the summer of 2024.
    After successful loan spells at Charlton Athletic and Coventry, the Holland U18s defender look elsewhere for the benefit of his career.
    Premier League Fixtures out TODAY
    The 2022/23 Premier League Fixtures will be released at 9am.
    Who will your team face first?
    Load more entries… More

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    Bissouma PASSES Tottenham medical, Liverpool AGREE £5.5m Calvin Ramsay transfer, Inter Milan £4.5m Lukaku loan bid

    TOTTENHAM are on the verge of announcing the £25m signing of Brighton’s Yves Bissouma.The midfielder has today passed a medical in North London.
    Meanwhile, Liverpool remain busy following the signing of Darwin Nunez.
    The press in Aberdeen report that right-back Calvin Ramsay will join the Reds for a £5.5m fee.
    And Inter Milan are said to have made a £4.5m loan offer for Romelu Lukaku.
    Such a fee is unlikely to force Chelsea’s hand, however.
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    Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news across the globe…
    Icardi to Wolves?
    PSG have reportedly asked Jorge Mendes to orchestrate a transfer for Mauro Icardi to Wolves.
    Corriere dello Sport claims PSG are desperate to offload struggling striker Icardi this summer.
    PSG want to replace Icardi with Sassuolo’s Gianluca Scamacca, who scored 16 times in Serie A.
    It’s reckoned there aren’t many takers for Icardi.
    So PSG have asked his representative Mendes to try and facilitate a move to Wolves.

    Conte wants three more signings
    Tottenham boss Antonio Conte is intent on adding three more signings to his squad after bringing in Yves Bissouma.
    Conte hopes to recruit a right-wing back, centre-back, and a striker to Tottenham’s squad this summer, according to The Evening Standard.
    And Nottingham Forest star Djed Spence is Conte’s top pick for the right-wing back role, the report adds.
    However, Spurs have to fend off interest from face competition from Borussia Dortmund and Roma for Spence’s signature.
    Tavares wanted by Atalanta
    Arsenal star Nuno Tavares is being chased by Italian club Atalanta.
    The Serie A side have been impressed by the defender, and want to bring him in loan, according to Corriere della Sera.
    Atalanta will likely try to add an option to buy clause into the deal, but it’s unclear if Arsenal will be open to doing so, the report adds.
    Chelsea line up Lewandowksi transfer
    Chelsea are lining up Robert Lewandowski as a back-up target for Gabriel Jesus after Arsenal took a huge step towards signing the Brazilian, according to reports.
    Chelsea had hoped to sign Jesus, 25, to solve their centre forward woes, with Timo Werner also struggling for goals following his 2020 transfer.
    In fact, the German is regularly forced out wide by Thomas Tuchel, with Kai Havertz leading the line as a false nine.
    Tuchel is desperate for an elite striker to finally solve his forward dilemma, with the boss keen on his wealth of Premier League experience and versatility.
    But with Arsenal leading the race for the Manchester City star, Tuchel has turned his attention to Lewandowski as a back-up option, according to Christian Falk.
    Spurs close to completing biss-ness
    Yves Bissouma has completed his medical ahead of a switch to Tottenham, report Sky Sports.
    Spurs have agreed a £25million deal with Brighton for the midfielder, which could rise to £35m depending on add ons.
    Bissouma is understood to have flown into the UK on Wednesday and stayed at the on-site hotel at Tottenham’s training ground.
    Arsenal, Aston Villa and Everton had been among the other clubs interested in signing the Mali international this summer after Brighton had rejected a bid from Aston Villa for Bissouma in the January transfer window
    Prem transfer battle for Swede
    Southampton are close to completing a £9million move to sign Bologna midfielder Mattias Svanberg, according to Calciomercato.
    West Ham, Tottenham and Everton are all said to be interested in the Swedish midfielder, who is about to enter the final year of his contract.
    Marcelo Bielsa targets Antoine Griezmann
    Marcelo Bielsa is being tipped to take over at Athletic Bilbao and he could make Antoine Griezmann his first signing.
    The Frenchman was born in the Basque region so qualifies for Bilbao having previously played for neighbours Real Sociedad.
    AS report Bielsa’s interest in the forward but state Atletico have first dibs since they have the option to make his loan permanent.
    Liverpool complete £6.5m deal for Aberdeen full-back Calvin Ramsay
    Liverpool are set to announce their third signing of the summer and in doing so complete their transfer business for the year.
    Aberdeen full-back Calvin Ramsay will follow £85million arrival Darwin Nunez and Fabio Carvalho through the doors at Anfield.
    The Reds and Scottish side Aberdeen have agreed a £6.5million fee for the 18-year-old right-back.
    An initial £4m will be paid up-front, with the deal worth a further £2.5m in add-ons, a record sale for the SPL outfit.

    And in signing Ramsay the Mail claim Liverpool’s business has concluded for the summer, eleven-weeks before the transfer window closes.
    Carvalho and Nunez have already been recruited, with the Reds happy to wait another until 2023 to make more additions.
    Man Utd offered ‘nothing’, says Pogba
    Paul Pogba claims he left Manchester United because he did not receive a substantial contract offer from the club.
    The midfielder, 29, is set to leave Old Trafford after six years when his contract expires at the end of the month.
    In a new Amazon Prime documentary about his life titled “The Pogmentary”, Pogba shares the conversation he had with his agent, the late Mino Raiola, about United’s offer in the summer of 2021.
    Raiola says to his client: “Yes. They absolutely want you to stay.
    “For me, the offer doesn’t reflect that. I told them, ‘If you want him to stay, don’t make that offer’.
    “I will make them understand that if they really want you to stay and they want to build a project around you, this time they have to act differently and put the money on the table.”
    Pogba agreed with his agent’s view of the situation and the Frenchman responds saying: “They’re bluffing.
    “How can you tell a player you absolutely want him and offer him nothing? Never seen that.”
    Has Gary Neville got a reason to worry?
    Gary Neville admitted Manchester United’s failure to make a signing this transfer window is “worrying” him.
    As well as De Jong, the Red Devils have been linked with AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer, who reportedly wants out at the San Siro.
    Elsewhere an offer has been made for Christian Eriksen, who is a free agent after his short-term deal with Brentford came to an end.
    But Neville is quite rightly keen for much of United’s business to be done before the Ten Hag era gets underway at home to Brighton on August 7.
    The Red Devils have been handed a tricky opening month by the Premier League schedulers.
    After travelling to Brentford, United face Liverpool, Southampton and Leicester, before hosting Arsenal at the start of September.
    Man Utd face competition over Ward-Prowse
    West Ham and Newcastle have reportedly joined Manchester United in the race to prise James Ward-Prowse away from Southampton.
    SunSport exclusively revealed last month how new Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag had identified the midfielder as a key target.
    Ten Hag is desperate to bolster his midfield with Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic set to leave when their contracts expire at the end of June.
    We also told you how David Moyes was keeping tabs on the England international ahead of a possible summer swoop.
    And now the Mirror have claimed that the Hammers boss is keen to bring him to the London Stadium.
    They also state that Newcastle are interested in the player following his stunning 2021-22 season.
    Ward-Prowse chipped in with a career-best 11 goals in 42 games in all competitions, while also registering eight assists.
    Want fries with that?
    Manchester United and Tottenham have been joined by Chelsea in the battle to sign Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries.
    The Red Devils and Spurs are both priced as 6/1 favourites with Sky Bet, but Chelsea are just behind at 7/1.
    The Dutch international impressed during last summers Euros campaign where the attacking fullback bagged two goals and an assist in Netherlands’ run to the round of 16.
    His solid displays in the Euros earned the 26-year-old a £12m move from PSV to Inter Milan.
    The right wing-back impressed in his first season in Italy, winning the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana, leading to reports of another move this summer.
    Sky Bet odds:

    Manchester United – 6/1
    Tottenham – 6/1
    Chelsea – 7/1
    Bayern Munich – 16/1

    Wales ace in demand
    Rabbi Matondo is at the centre of a SIX-CLUB summer transfer fight, writes SunSport’s Phil Cadden.
    Premier League trio Brentford, Leeds and newly-promoted Nottingham Forest are all admirers of the Wales forward.
    Matondo, who was on loan at Cercle Brugge last season but is contracted to Schalke, has also attracted interest from Ligue 1 clubs Lens, Brest and Troyes in France.
    The 21-year-old did not find an agreement with Belgian club Brugge, where he scored nine goals last term, but is available for £3.5million.
    Matondo has just one year left on his deal with the Bundesliga outfit.
    Breaking – Arsenal set to seal Jesus with £50m bid
    Arsenal have submitted a £50million bid for Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus, according to reports.
    The Gunners previously bid £30m for Jesus, 25, but are now set to match City’s £50m asking price, report The Times.
    And the forward is said to be keen on the move to link back up with Mikel Arteta, who he worked with at City.

    The Gunners were seemingly unwilling to pay £50m to land Jesus previously given he is set to enter the final year of his City contract.
    But the striker’s agent Marcello Pettinati reportedly arrived in London yesterday to hold transfer talks with Arsenal.
    Personal terms are still yet to be agreed but it seems Jesus is heading for the Emirates.
    2022-23 Premier League match-ball
    The Premier League have revealed their 2022-23 Nike match-ball – and it’s a stunning retro throwback.
    The fixtures for the upcoming season were released early on Thursday morning.
    And the official Premier League Twitter account followed that up shortly afterwards by sharing two pictures of the new match-ball.
    Nike’s 2022-23 effort is inspired by the iconic 1992-93 Mitre Pro-Max ball used for the first-ever Prem campaign, even featuring the navy blue, red and gold arrows.

    The Premier League shared a sneak peek of the ball on Twitter, captioned: “Inspired by the first PL season, 30 years ago.
    “The new 2022-23 Nike Flight PL Ball. Out 15 July.”
    Tielemans a ‘top priority’ for Arteta
    Arsenal are hopeful they can seal a deal for Leicester midfielder Youri Tielemans before the end of the month, according to reports.
    Ben Jacobs of CBS Sports said: “Arsenal remain confident and on course to sign Youri Tielemans before the month is out.
    “Interest from Tottenham was never too advanced. But Bissouma’s incoming arrival will allay fears Spurs could hijack the deal.
    “Tielemans is one of Arteta’s top priorities.”
    Jorginho no longer ‘untouchable’?
    Juventus could offer Merih Demiral to Chelsea in exchange for Jorginho, with the Italian midfielder no longer considered “untouchable”, according to reports.
    Chelsea chief Tuchel has a plan to rebuild and could use Jorginho, 30, as a pawn to land a freebie to help ease his woes.
    The Italy international was considered “untouchable” by Stamford Bridge chiefs and was even tipped for the Ballon d’Or as recently as last year.

    But according to CalcioMercato, Tuchel is happy to move on from the midfielder, who’s hot form cooled late last season.
    And Juventus are set to take advantage by offering a straight swap.
    Demiral, 24, spent last season on loan at Atalanta, but the Serie A side rejected their £15million option to sign the Turkish international permanently.
    The centre-back is not in Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri’s plans.
    The Old Lady boss was set to put Demiral on the transfer market for around £25m.
    Forest close to signing Henderson
    Nottingham Forest are “close to agreeing” a deal with Manchester United for the signing of keeper Dean Henderson.
    Sky Sports report that deal is a loan with an option to buy for around £20million.
    Forest are looking to replace Brice Samba, who told the club he wants to leave.
    Chelsea a ‘realistic destination’ for Nkunku
    Former England international Glen Johnson reckons that Christopher Nkunku should snub Manchester United for a move to Stamford Bridge.
    Nkunku, 24, has been linked with both Chelsea and United this summer.
    And the ex-Chelsea man spoke to bettingodds.com about the highly-rated midfielder.
    Johnson said: “I believe Chelsea is a more realistic destination than Manchester United if both clubs are genuinely interested.
    “A player going to a top team that’s had a really good season will be looking for Champions League football… I definitely think that’s where these sorts of players look first.
    “If he was to leave RB Leipzig, then I think Chelsea could be a better fit.”
    Inter make Lukaku bid
    Inter Milan have made an opening bid for Romelu Lukaku, according to reports.
    The Belgian is eager to return to San Siro, just one year after his £97.5million return to Chelsea.
    According to Fabrizio Romano, Inter offered just £4.3m to loan Lukaku back for the season.
    The bid was quickly rejected by the Blues, but the striker will continue to push.
    Lukaku has informed Todd Boehly and Thomas Tuchel that he only wants to return to Inter.
    Klopp vs Guardiola
    Liverpool host Man City on Oct 15.
    The reverse tie in Manchester is on April Fool’s day.
    Stick them in your diary folks.
    Super Sunday
    The first Super Sunday of the season will feature both Manchester clubs.
    Manchester City will see summer signing Erling Haaland in action.
    Pep Guardiola’s Prem champions will travel to the London Stadium to face West Ham.
    The two sides played out a thrilling 2-2 draw last time out, with City coming from two goals down after Jarrod Bowen scored a first half brace.

    But just before West Ham and City play, Erik ten Hag will look to start his Manchester United career with a win.
    The Red Devils will take on Brighton at Old Trafford in a 2PM kick-off.
    Friday night lights and Saturday kick offs
    Arsenal will kick off the Premier League season for the second year in a row with the Gunners travelling to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace.
    The last time Arsenal faced Patrick Vieira’s men away from home, Palace stuck three past them in a major blow to their top-four hopes.
    Liverpool fans will then be given a first glimpse of club record signing Darwin Nunez in competitive action.
    Jurgen Klopp’s domestic double Reds travel to Championship record goal scorers Fulham.
    Fabio Carvalho could feature against his old club Fulham after leaving for Liverpool on a free transfer.
    Bournemouth’s return to the top flight will see them face a new look Aston Villa at 3PM.
    Leeds vs Wolves, Leicester vs Brentford, Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest and Tottenham vs Southampton make up the rest of the 3PM kick-offs on the opening weekend.
    Everton will then close the opening Saturday when they welcome Chelsea to Goodison Park in a 5.30 kick-off.

    2022/23 Premier League opening weekend
    The Premier League fixtures have been released!
    We have a Friday night bout between Arsenal and Palace to open the Premier League season.
    Promoted Fulham are up against Liverpool in the early kick-off on Saturday.
    And champions Man City face a tricky away tie at West Ham on Sunday.
    Bring it on.

    Jules might be stolen
    Chelsea target Jules Kounde is reportedly in advanced talks over a move to Barcelona.
    Kounde, 23, has been a long term target for Thomas Tuchel’s team as they look to replace departing key defenders.
    Both Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen are leaving for free and centre-back Kounde seems the perfect fit.
    But now Cataluyna Radio claim that Barcelona are in “advanced negotiations” with Sevilla for the French international.
    There is a £51million deal lined up which would see the Catalan club also send a player in exchange.
    It would be a major blow to Chelsea’s transfer plans, in the first window of the Todd Boehly era.
    Load more entries… More

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    Chelsea flop Romelu Lukaku is desperate to return to Inter Milan, confirms club chief after failed loan transfer offer

    INTER MILAN chief Alessandro Antonello has revealed there is a “great desire on the part of” Romelu Lukaku to return to the club.Lukaku left Inter last summer to return to Chelsea for a club record transfer fee having helped them win the Scudetto.
    Chelsea are open to letting Lukaku leave the club this summerCredit: Getty
    The 29-year-old could return to Inter, where he won the ScudettoCredit: Getty
    The Belgian, 29, netted 24 goals in Inter’s title-winning campaign, and formed a formidable partnership with Lautaro Martinez.
    However, Lukaku has struggled to adapt back to life in London and seen his form on the pitch take a downturn.
    In addition, the forward didn’t help himself when he landed in hot water with Chelsea and their fans for an unauthorised interview.
    In the interview with Italian TV, Lukaku claimed to be unhappy with his situation at Stamford Bridge and also vowed to return to Inter.
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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 his switch back to the San Siro could happen sooner rather than later with Inter in negotiations to bring him back to Italy on loan.
    The Belgian is ready to take a 50 per cent pay cut to force through a move.
    However, Inter would have to be prepared to cough up a sizeable loan fee.
    Inter chief Antonello says there is a “great desire on the part of Lukaku to return”, but the club is also keen to stick within Uefa’s Financial Fair Play rules.
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    Antonello said: “He and Dybala together? For us it is essential to combine competitiveness on the pitch and economic-financial sustainability.
    “We are doing it and every choice of the club on the transfer market will always be inspired by these two words. We want to respect Uefa’s Financial Fair Play.
    “There is a great desire on the part of Lukaku to return.
    “What needs to be verified are the economic and financial feasibility and the resolution of some technical problems. 
    “However, it is better to talk to Dr. Marotta about this.” More

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    Chelsea make Robert Lewandowski back-up transfer target if they miss out on Gabriel Jesus to Arsenal

    CHELSEA are lining up Robert Lewandowski as a back-up target for Gabriel Jesus after Arsenal took a huge step towards signing the Brazilian, according to reports.The Blues are desperately chasing a new striker with Romelu Lukaku pushing for a return to Inter Milan after a disastrous 2021-22 season – his first following a £97.5million return to Stamford Bridge.
    Chelsea have put Robert Lewandowski on their transfer wish-list as back-up to Arsenal-bound Gabriel Jesus, say reportsCredit: Reuters
    Gabriel Jesus was Chelsea’s top striker target this summer but Arsenal are leading the race to sign the Man City starCredit: Getty
    Chelsea had hoped to sign Jesus, 25, to solve their centre forward woes, with Timo Werner also struggling for goals following his 2020 transfer.
    In fact, the German is regularly forced out wide by Thomas Tuchel, with Kai Havertz leading the line as a false nine.
    Tuchel is desperate for an elite striker to finally solve his forward dilemma, with the boss keen on his wealth of Premier League experience and versatility.
    But with Arsenal leading the race for the Manchester City star, Tuchel has turned his attention to Lewandowski as a back-up option, according to Christian Falk.
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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;}Chelsea news .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;}Lukaku ‘desperate’ to return to Inter, Chelsea Prem fixtures CONFIRMED
    The Polish striker, 33, is desperate to leave Bayern Munich following a public fall-out with club chiefs.
    However, Lewandowski favours a move to Barcelona, with Paris Saint-Germain also considering a last-gasp swoop for the legendary striker.
    Bild’s head of football Falk confirmed Chelsea are BEHIND both Barca and PSG in the race forLewandowski.
    That means the Blues are failing in the race to sign both of their top forward targets.
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    Chelsea will be boosted by the knowledge in-debt Barcelona may not be able to afford Lewandowski, but are aware PSG won’t have such problems.
    And they may have to admit defeat in the race to sign Jesus.
    According to The Times, Arsenal have submitted a £50m bid for the Man City striker.
    The Gunners previously bid £30m for Jesus but are now set to match City’s £50m asking price.
    The forward is said to be keen on the move to link back up with Mikel Arteta, with whom he worked with at the Etihad.
    The Arsenal boss also wants to reunite with Jesus and made the Brazilian one of his transfer priorities this summer after letting Alexandre Lacazette leave.
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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;}NOT SO FABULOSA .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 bagged 40 bottles of Fabulosa on sale – people are moaning it’s sold out
    Arteta had been apprehensive to spend £50m for a player who is about to enter the final year of his contract.
    But the North London club are now seemingly willing to spend what it takes to sign Jesus – in a huge blow to Chelsea. More

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    Chelsea ‘agree fee with Southampton for Eddie Beach’ as Blues win transfer battle for highly-rated teen keeper

    CHELSEA have reportedly won the race to sign highly-rated Southampton goalkeeper Eddie Beach. The teenager was a regular for the Saints’ U18s side last season.
    Chelsea have agreed a fee to sign young goalkeeper Eddie Beach from SouthamptonCredit: Instagram / @eddiebeach_
    And now the Blues have agreed a fee to sign the 18-year-old, according to The Guardian.
    Beach has represented Wales at U19 level and is considered as a top prospect for the future.
    Chelsea are claimed to have fought off a number of other interested clubs in order to secure his signature.
    Beach played 20 times in all competitions for Southampton U18s in the recent campaign, as well as once for the U23s.
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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;}Chelsea news .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;}Chelsea PL fixtures CONFIRMED, club ‘make Sterling, Dembele transfer targets’
    He helped the Saints’ U18s top the U18 Premier League South last season, before losing to Manchester City’s youngsters in the National Final.
    The Blues’ capture of Beach is not expected to end their pursuit of Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina, who is also 18-years-old.
    Meanwhile in the first-team Thomas Tuchel is yet to make a new signing under owner Todd Boehly.
    Although fans may not have much longer to wait.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Spanish outlet Sport claims the Blues have agreed personal terms with defender Jules Kounde.
    Although Sevilla are thought to be holding out for £56million in order to part ways with the Frenchman.
    Elsewhere Romelu Lukaku is claimed to be closing in on a return to Inter Milan after he informed Blues chiefs that he has his heart set on a move back to Italy.
    The Belgian is ready to take a 50 per cent pay cut to force through a move, according to Fabrizio Romano.
    But Inter are unable to afford a permanent deal and want Chelsea to accept a loan offer. More

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    Jules Kounde ‘agrees five-year Chelsea contract’ but Sevilla hold out on £56m transfer fee for defender

    SEVILLA defender Jules Kounde has reportedly agreed a five-year deal with Premier League side Chelsea.The Blues were heavily linked with the Frenchman last summer but their bid failed to force Sevilla’s hand into selling.
    Kounde is said to have agreed a five-year deal with ChelseaCredit: Rex
    Kounde was said to be left fuming with his club for denying him a move to the then European champions.
    The 23-year-old may finally get his move away from Sevilla this summer, with a number of top clubs eyeing a move.
    According to Sport, Kounde has agreed a five-year deal with Chelsea but a fee with Sevilla is yet to be struck.
    Barcelona are also believed to be in the hunt for the defender.
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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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    Xavi and Co believe a fee of £51.6million is feasible, but Sevilla are hoping to collect closer to £56m.
    In order to beat Chelsea to Kounde’s signature, Barca would have to convince the player to accept half of what Thomas Tuchel’s side are offering.
    Barca can’t offer the same wage as the Prem side who are reportedly ready to make him one of the highest paid players at Stamford Bridge – a risky move that could lead to possible unrest within the squad.
    Kounde caused concern during the international break after an old pelvic problem flared up.
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    Sevilla are privately fuming that Kounde opted to play for France against Croatia in the Nations League, while carrying the knock and risking the deal.
    The defender underwent surgery on Tuesday. More

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    Chelsea ‘make Sterling, Dembele and Nkunku top attacking transfer targets’, Richarlison ‘chooses Blues over Madrid’

    THOMAS TUCHEL has reportedly placed three players among his top attacking targets after being told he can lead Chelsea’s transfer business this summer.Man City’s Raheem Sterling, RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku and PSG’s Ousmane Dembele are the players the German is said to be most keen on.
    The Blues have also reportedly been offered Gabriel Jesus by Man City.
    Meanwhile Richarlison is said to be keen on a move to Chelsea over Real Madrid, and has already ruled out joining Arsenal in private.
    And talks between Romelu Lukaku and Inter are reported to have got underway, with both clubs keen to push a quick deal through.
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    BREAKING – Inter make Lukaku bid
    Inter Milan have made an opening bid for Romelu Lukaku today, according to reports.
    The Belgian is eager to return to San Siro, just one year after his £97.5million return to Chelsea.
    According to Fabrizio Romano, Inter offered just £4.3m to loan Lukaku back for the season.
    The bid was quickly rejected by the Blues, but the striker will continue to push.
    Lukaku has informed Todd Boehly and Thomas Tuchel that he only wants to return to Inter.
    Blues urged to flog striker
    Chelsea should accept £60million for Romelu Lukaku, claims talkSPORT pundit Simon Jordan.
    The Belgian arrived from Inter Milan for £97.5m last summer, but has struggled to fit in Thomas Tuchel’s style of play.
    Speaking about Lukaku’s future, Jordan said: “If they ship him out for £60million, they’ve got no loss on their balance sheet and they can go again with somebody that might actually want to be there and somebody that might actually do what they’re paid to do.
    “He doesn’t really want to be there, so sell him.”
    Chelsea raid Saints for goalkeeper
    The Blues have signed young Southampton ace Eddie Beach, according to reports.
    According to Football London, Chelsea have beaten off plenty of competition to sign the teenage goalkeeper.
    Beach, 18, was a regular for the Saints’ Under-18s last season.
    Chelsea in defender hunt blow
    Jules Kounde is closing in on a move to Barcelona, claim Spanish paper Sport.
    The Frenchman is among the Blues’ top targets to replace Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer.
    Reports in Spain, however, suggest that Barcelona are in “very advanced” negotiations with Sevilla for the Frenchman.
    The fee could be around £50million, with Sergino Dest moving in the other direction a possibility.
    Blues striker shortlist revealed
    Chelsea have compiled an attacking wishlist, with Romelu Lukaku likely to leave.
    According to the Telegraph, Inter Milan have opened talks with the Blues over bringing the Belgian back to San Siro.
    They add that Raheem Sterling, Ousmane Dembele and Christopher Nkunku are among their top targets.
    While Manchester City ace Gabriel Jesus is claimed to have been offered their way.
    Gabriel Jesus race hotting up
    Arsenal remain the frontrunners in the quest to sign Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City but face competition from the likes of Chelsea and Real Madrid.
    Sky Bet make the Gunners odds-on favourites at 4/7, with Chelsea having the next shortest odds at 11/4.
    Sky Bet odds

    Arsenal – 4/7
    Chelsea – 11/4
    Real Madrid – 9/1
    Tottenham – 10/1
    AC Milan – 22/1
    Juventus – 22/1
    Aston Villa – 25/1
    Atletico Madrid – 25/1
    Bayern Munich – 25/1
    Barcelona – 33/1
    Borussia Dortmund – 33/1
    Inter Milan – 33/1
    PSG – 33/1
    Roma – 33/1

    Rob-bed of seeing Lewandowski
    Robert Lewandowski’s former agent has revealed why he believes the Polish striker has never played in the Premier League.
    The 34-year-old has made it clear his desire to leave Bayern Munich this summer.
    However, he looks poised for a move to Barcelona rather than any of the top English sides.
    And Cezary Kucharski, who represented Lewandowski until 2018, has given his view as to why a transfer to the Premier League has never occurred.
    Speaking to Sport1, he said: “I always heard Robert give a childish explanation that it rains so much in England.
    “But I think the real reason was that he didn’t think he could be as efficient as in Germany. Robert was really afraid of that.”
    Maat’s the matter with you?
    Chelsea are in danger of losing ANOTHER defender as young prospect Ian Maatsen is reportedly being eyed up by Feyenoord.
    The 20-year-old left-back made his debut for the Blues under Frank Lampard in 2019 during a 7-1 League Cup win over Grimsby.
    According to Voetbal International, Feyenoord are now eyeing up the possibility of bringing him back to the club – nine years after they let him go as a youngster.
    Maatsen is under contract with Chelsea – with the Blues announcing two years ago that he had penned a new deal which will run until at least the summer of 2024.
    But a lack of game time could see the Holland U18s defender look elsewhere for the benefit of his career.
    Prem to ditch festive fixtures
    The Premier League will reportedly scrap the traditional fixtures between Boxing Day and New Year after the World Cup.
    The December 28 games have been axed this year in an effort to help ease players back from the World Cup following the tournament in Qatar.
    The normal fixture list for that date has been moved due to the concerns over the physical conditioning of players that will have returned to domestic duties on Boxing Day – just eight days after the final in Doha.
    Telegraph Sport says that the Prem “will announce in its club fixture lists on Thursday that its festive calendar will now only include Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and Jan 2” this term.
    Spurs ‘to leapfrog Blues’
    Shaun Wright-Phillips fears that Chelsea could be left behind by rivals Tottenham next season.
    He told Genting Casino: “I can see Chelsea getting left behind by Tottenham.
    “They became so resilient towards the back end of the season and were so good on the counter attack.
    “Antonio Conte is a great manager and the club seems to be opening the cheque-book for him so he’ll make things very difficult for the teams around him.”
    Mounting a challenge
    Mason Mount can be a future Ballon d’Or winner, claims former Blue Shaun Wright-Phillips.
    Speaking to Genting Casino, he said: “If Chelsea were to win trophies and Mason Mount is the stand out player, there is no reason why he couldn’t win the Ballon D’Or one day.
    “Mount is still a young player and is still learning to be consistent. He’s played so well and is carrying Chelsea on his shoulders and helped them get into the Champions League, but people need to remember how young he is and that he’s still got a lot to learn.
    “You look at when he came back to Chelsea from his loan spell, he played well when they were under a transfer ban, the season after that, Frank Lampard got sacked, Thomas Tuchel came in and he still played well. It’s normal that he has a dip in form.
    “I hope Mason stays a one-club man at Chelsea and as long as they start to win trophies again, there will be no reason why he won’t stay for his whole career.”
    Ex-Chelsea star heads to Djibouti
    Former Chelsea striker has joined ambitious Djibouti champs AS Arta Solar 7 in a vintage link-up with ex-Arsenal rival Alex Song.
    Ivory Coast hero Kalou, 36, and Gunners’ cult star Song, 37, aim to help Arta to glory in the African equivalent of the Champions League.
    The duo team up with a rich array of internationals, including one-time Cameroon keeper Idriss Carlos Kameni, Indomitable Lion defender Dany Nounkeu, Senegal frontman Diafra Sakho and Burkina Faso attacker Alain Traore.
    But it’s Kalou coming together with Cameroon legend Song that will capture the imagination of African football fans.
    Arta are keen to become one of the major names in football’s fastest- emerging continent.
    And Kalou has signed a short-term deal after spells with Lille and Hertha BC.
    Blues willing to pay Kounde clause
    Chelsea and Newcastle are both reportedly willing to meet the release clause in the contract of Sevilla’s Jules Kounde but Barcelona are also interested.
    Barca, due to financial difficulties, may not be able to afford the £69million it will take to buy Kounde.
    Therefore, Xavi’s side are weighing up alternative options such as offering players as part of the deal.
    Mundo Deportivo claim full-back Sergino Dest is one man that Barcelona would be willing to send to Sevilla to help lower the fee for the centre-back.
    Kounde has also reportedly expressed his desire to play for the Catalan giants over any other team.
    Chelsea ‘enter Richarlison hunt’
    West Londoners have reportedly joined rivals Tottenham in the race to sign Everton ace Richarlison, according to reports.
    The Brazilian helped the Toffees avoid a catastrophic relegation from the Premier League last term.
    Richarlison scored ten and assisted five in the league last season, with five of his strikes coming in Everton’s final ten games.
    Antonio Conte is looking to cement Spurs’ place inside the top four by starting the summer transfer window early.
    The Italian is a big admirer of Richarlison, who would provide cover for both Son Heung-min and striker Harry Kane.
    But according to UOL, Chelsea have also registered an interest in Richarlison.
    Flop nearing Serie A return
    Romelu Lukaku is reportedly closing in on a return to Inter Milan from Chelsea.
    The striker has informed Blues chiefs that he has his heart set on a move back to Italy after a disastrous season at Stamford Bridge.
    And the two clubs are now set for face-to-face talks as they aim to wrap up a deal as soon as possible.
    Lukaku has been pining for a reunion with Inter for months after going off the boil in London.
    The Belgian is ready to take a 50 per cent pay cut to force through a move.
    But Inter are unable to afford a permanent deal and want Chelsea to accept a loan offer.
    Fabrizio Romano claim the Blues are receptive to Lukaku’s exit, however, they want a £17m loan fee or a player in exchange – with the likes of Lautaro Martinez and Alessandro Bastoni admired by Thomas Tuchel.
    A Slo burner for Tuchel
    Also on the club’s radar is American starlet Gabriel Slonina with the 18-year-old establishing himself as the first-choice goalkeeper at Chicago Fire.
    However should Chelsea manage to nab the teenager, he would be sent back to the MLS club to continue his development.
    Romano tweeted: “Gabriel Slonina, different deal – he’d be one for the future, staying at Chicago Fire on loan.”
    It is understood that Chelsea are battling Real Madrid for his signature, with Slonina’s representative stating it is his client’s “dream” to play for Los Blancos.
    Blues in for Strakosha
    Chelsea have reportedly set their sights on signing goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha, writes Jake Lambourne.
    It has been said that boss Thomas Tuchel is keen to find a back-up for Edouard Mendy should Kepa Arrizabalga depart Stamford Bridge.
    Kepa has been limited to just 11 Premier League appearances, and Tuchel confirmed last month that showdown talks are planned to take place.
    It is claimed that Chelsea are pondering a move for Albania international Strakosha.
    Credit: Getty
    The 27-year-old is set to be available as a free agent when his contract at Lazio expires at the end of the month.
    SunSport exclusively revealed that Chelsea’s rivals Fulham were also in the hunt to secure his services.
    According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are now eyeing up a swoop for Strakosha, who has appeared in 208 matches for Lazio since the 2016-17 season.
    Romano tweeted: “Thomas Strakosha’s now attracting interest, available on free transfer.
    “Chelsea are considering him as one of the options, but only in case Kepa will leave the club this summer.”
    Time for Chelsea to look over their shoulder, says Wright-Phillips
    Former Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips reckons that Chelsea could lose their place in the top four to London rivals Tottenham.
    Wright-Phillips spoke to Genting Casino about Spurs overpowering the Blues.
    He said: “I can see Chelsea getting left behind by Tottenham.
    “They became so resilient towards the back end of the season and were so good on the counter attack.
    “Antonio Conte is a great manager and the club seems to be opening the cheque-book for him so he’ll make things very difficult for the teams around him.”
    I can see Chelsea getting left behind by TottenhamShaun Wright-Phillips
    Pace of English football too much for Lukaku, says Mikel
    Former Chelsea star Mikel John Obi says Romelu Lukaku has failed to meet the intense physical demands of the Premier League.
    Ex-Nigeria midfielder Mikel, 35, was a Blues team-mate of Lukaku, 29, before the Belgian left Stamford Bridge to join Everton in 2014.
    Lukaku has failed to live up to the expectations which came with his £97.5million return to Chelsea from Inter Milan last summer.
    When asked why Lukaku appears to now be a “square peg in a round hole” at the Blues, Mikel told Naija FM: “The league is totally different.
    “The English league is too strong, too powerful, too fast, whereas the Italian league is too slow.
    “The English league has too much quality. The pace of English football is way too much for the Italian league.
    “In the Italian league you can play until you’re 40 years old, but in the English league you’re putting in way more work.”
    Lukaku swap deal still an option
    Chelsea and Inter are in talks to get a deal which is favourable for both parties.
    A swap deal for striker Lautaro Martinez is still on the table.
    Ben Jacobs of CBS Sports tweeted: “Lukaku will have to take a wage cut and accepts this.
    “Chelsea are exploring both a traditional loan and a swap-deal.
    “Inter don’t want to let Martinez go. They see his relationship and friendship with Lukaku as key.
    “Chelsea sources have always distanced themselves from Martinez and say a swap-deal is just ‘one possibility'”.
    Blues willing to consider Lukaku move
    Romelu Lukaku is reportedly closing in on a return to Inter Milan from Chelsea, writes Anthony Chapman.
    Fabrizio Romano claim the Blues are receptive to Lukaku’s exit.
    However, they want a £17m loan fee or a player in exchange, with the likes of Lautaro Martinez and Alessandro Bastoni admired by Thomas Tuchel.
    Chelsea and Inter chiefs are now set to take the next step forward in talks by directly meeting to thrash out details.
    Lukaku netted 47 league goals in just two seasons at Inter, helping them to last year’s title.
    But he managed just eight Premier League strikes at Chelsea this term.
    His exit means Chelsea are likely going to want a new forward this summer.
    Barca switch will happen ‘soon’, says Christensen
    Andreas Christensen is keen on completing his transfer from Chelsea to Barcelona in the not-too-distant future.
    When asked when his switch to Barca will happen, he said: “Hopefully soon.
    “I have known what I was going to do for a while. I’m just waiting for the right time. Unfortunately, it’s not entirely up to me. There are also other things that need to fall into place.
    “It is one of the biggest clubs in Europe. I think it is for everyone – whether they have had their problems or not, it is still one of the biggest clubs for a player to get to.”
    Lewandowski ‘perfect replacement’ for Lukaku, says Wright-Phillips
    Former Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips reckons that the Blues should go all in for Robert Lewandowski if Lukaku leaves for Inter.
    Rom has been closing in on a return to the San Siro and the clubs are in direct talks for a loan deal.
    Should the striker be off, Wright-Phillips told Genting Casino that Lewandowski would fill in perfectly.
    However, he did warn that Tuchel’s team would need to play to his strengths, something they haven’t managed with Lukaku.
    He said: “Robert Lewandowski would be the perfect replacement for Romelu Lukaku if Lukaku does leave.
    “No matter what team he plays in, he always scores goals.
    “Chelsea would just have to make sure they play to his strengths.”
    Chelsea and Inter have “direct talks” for Lukaku loan
    There is reportedly “direct talks” taking place between Inter Milan and Chelsea in order to complete Romelu Lukaku’s loan move back to the San Siro.
    Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Inter are now prepared to open direct talks with Chelsea to discuss about Romelu Lukaku and loan deal details.
    “Lukaku has held discussions with Chelsea – but it’s now time for direct contact between clubs.
    “Loan fee, salary and more will be discussed with Inter soon.”
    Kounde deal now uncertain over injury
    Jules Kounde’s dream move to Chelsea has been rocked by an injury storm.
    The £70million-rated Sevilla defender underwent surgery on Tuesday on an old pelvic problem which flared up on international duty on Monday.
    Kounde fears that although the op is minor it could still affect his chances of securing a big-money transfer to the Prem this summer.
    And Sevilla are privately fuming that Kounde opted to play for France against Croatia in the Nations League, while carrying the knock and risking the deal.
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    Chelsea at risk of losing ANOTHER defender as Feyenoord plot transfer for youngster Ian Maatsen

    CHELSEA are in danger of losing ANOTHER defender as young prospect Ian Maatsen is reportedly being eyed up by Feyenoord.The 20-year-old left-back made his debut for the Blues under Frank Lampard in 2019 during a 7-1 League Cup win over Grimsby.
    Maatsen has spent the last two seasons out on loan at Charlton and CoventryCredit: PA
    But he did not receive another first team opportunity and subsequently went on loan to third tier Charlton for the 2020/21 campaign.
    Then last season he played 40 times for Coventry in the Championship, but has now returned to Chelsea following the end of his loan.
    Maatsen was a part of Feyenoord’s youth set-up but was let go in 2013.
    He then went on to Sparta Rotterdam and PSV before ending up at Chelsea.
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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;}Chelsea news .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;}Lukaku handed Chelsea exit BLOW, Blues ‘will move for Ait-Nouri’
    According to Voetbal International, Feyenoord are now eyeing up the possibility of bringing him back to the club – nine years after they let him go as a youngster.
    Maatsen is under contract with Chelsea – with the Blues announcing two years ago that he had penned a new deal which will run until at least the summer of 2024.
    But a lack of game time could see the Holland U18s defender look elsewhere for the benefit of his career.
    Maatsen is the fifth Chelsea defender whose future at the club has been called into question.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Antonio Rudiger has already left Stamford Bridge on a free transfer and signed for Real Madrid.
    Fellow centre-back Andreas Christensen has also been released and appears set to join Barcelona.
    Left-back Marcos Alonso has reportedly confirmed he wishes to depart this summer.
    And club captain Cesar Azpilicueta could also be heading out the exit door for free if Chelsea cannot agree terms with the Spaniard.
    If all of those players do leave then manager Thomas Tuchel will be heavily reliant on new owner Todd Boehly to back him in the summer window. More