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      Chelsea ‘set for talks with Romelu Lukaku over future with Inter Milan prepared to offer Stefan de Vrij as part of deal’

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      CHELSEA and Inter Milan are reportedly set for talks over a transfer move for Romelu Lukaku which could involve Stefan de Vrij.The striker moved from the Serie A side back to Stamford Bridge in a £97.5million deal last summer.
      Romelu Lukaku is set for talks with Inter Milan this weekCredit: Alamy
      Inter could use defender Stefan de Vrij as part of a potential dealCredit: Getty
      However, he has failed to shine back in West London and is believed to be desperate to return to the San Siro.
      The 29-year-old’s lawyer Sebastien Ledure is set to meet with the Nerazzurri this week about a potential deal.
      And they are due to also discuss terms of a contract.
      Inter want the Belgian star to take a paycut from his £325,000-a-week deal at Chelsea in order to get his wish and come back.
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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;}HERE WE BO .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;}How Chelsea could line up next year after takeover including Dembele and Hakimi
      However, even if they do that, then they will still need to convince the Blues to do business.
      Lukaku was Chelsea’s record signing and they will be determined not to let him leave for any major loss.
      A fresh report has claimed that they want a £19.5m fee from the Italians for a loan deal.
      And they also want a £59.6m fee as an obligation to buy next year.

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      However, cash-strapped Inter are considering offering 30-year-old centre-back De Vrij as part of the package, according to news outlet La Repubblica
      Inter CEO Beppe Marotta is desperate to have both Paulo Dybala and Lukaku in his attack next term and continues to explore all options.
      The De Vrij option could tempt Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel into doing a deal.
      He desperately needs defensive reinforcements with Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen both departing on free transfers.
      And the addition of the Dutch ace may prove to be too good to turn down. More

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      in Soccer

      Erik ten Hag watching Mason Mount’s contract situation at Chelsea as Man Utd consider transfer swoop for England star

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      MANCHESTER UNITED boss Erik ten Hag is watching Mason Mount’s contract situation at Chelsea as he considers a shock move for the England star.Mount has seen contract talks at Stamford Bridge stall following the protracted takeover of the club by Todd Boehly.
      Man Utd are plotting a shock swoop for Mason MountCredit: Getty
      Erik ten Hag is monitoring the England star’s contract statusCredit: EPA
      And his long-term future in West London is no longer secure.
      New United boss Ten Hag is well aware of the 23-year-old’s predicament and United’s interest has already been registered with the player’s camp.
      Ten Hag first became aware of Mount’s abilities when he impressed as a teenager on loan with Vitesse Arnheim in Holland.
      The Old Trafford chief has tracked his progress closely ever since, and given the chance, it is believed he would jump at the opportunity to try to tempt him to the North West.
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      Liverpool and Manchester City have already made discreet enquiries for the academy graduate if he decided to cast his thoughts away from Chelsea.
      Despite being named the London club’s player of the year for a second time, Mount is one of the lowest paid in the squad at Stamford Bridge.
      He still has two years left on his £88,000-a-week existing deal.
      But the need for the Blues to completely rebuild their defence this summer has seen his contract talks fall down the list of priorities.
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      The problem for Chelsea is that as he draws closer to entering the final year of his contract, other major clubs are starting to make it clear they want to snap him up.
      Barcelona are another of the teams who are watching on closely.
      And Mount’s position in negotiations with the Blues has massively strengthened over the past few months.
      However, despite the issues with his contract, Mount still insists he is looking ahead to next season with the Blues.
      He told Sky Sports: “It’s an exciting time now with the owners being confirmed, going forward it’s going to be exciting.
      “The era under Roman [Abramovich] has been brilliant, now we look forward. It’s exciting stuff, can’t wait to get back to it.” More

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      How Chelsea could line up next season after £4.25bn takeover completed including Ousmane Dembele and Achraf Hakimi

      by

      CHELSEA are set for a busy summer after Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital completed their £4.25billion takeover of the club.Upon completion of the deal Boehly revealed his intention to continue building upon the success of the club – including “acquiring the best talent”.
      How Chelsea could line up after summer investment
      Ousmane Dembele could be Chelsea’s first summer signingCredit: AFP
      A shock move for Achraf Hakimi could also be on the cardsCredit: Getty
      And his first piece of business could be the capture of Barcelona winger Ousmane Demebele on a free transfer.
      Next on the agenda is signing defenders to replace the outgoing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen ahead of their moves to LaLiga.
      Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde is a long-term target after the Blues had multiple bids for the Frenchman rejected last summer.
      But Chelsea are now believed to have agreed personal terms with Kounde and were set to conclude talks with Sevilla once the takeover was completed.
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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 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 want Ousmane Dembele, Kounde ‘to be first Todd Boehly signing’
      Thomas Tuchel is also said to be looking at Marc Cucurella following his impressive form for Brighton this season.
      Manchester City and Tottenham are also said to be keen on the defender, who can play at centre-back or left wing-back.
      Chelsea may be on the search for a back-up to Ben Chilwell with Marcos Alonso linked to Barcelona, so Cucurella could tick several boxes.
      Should the Blues lose the battle for Cucurella they could turn their attention to RB Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol.
      Chelsea have a number of transfer targets on their wishlist
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      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Achraf Hakimi has also emerged as a shock transfer target after reports the right-back is keen to leave Paris Saint-Germain.
      The Blues are keen to strengthen in attack with Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner potentially leaving.
      Lukaku could return to Inter Milan with Lautaro Martinez perhaps moving in the other direction.
      A blockbuster move for Robert Lewandowski could also be on the cards after the striker announced his desire to leave Bayern Munich.
      Chelsea considered a move for the Polish international last summer and Lewandowski was thought to be keen on a switch. More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea interested in Lautaro Martinez transfer after £4.25bn takeover as Inter Milan make Romelu Lukaku ‘priority’

      by

      INTER MILAN striker Lautaro Martinez is reportedly on Chelsea’s radar with the Serie A side desperate to bring Romelu Lukaku back to the San Siro.Belgian centre-forward Lukaku is facing an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge just a year after joining on a £97.5million deal.
      Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku could be heading back to Inter Milan this summerCredit: Getty
      Inter centre-forward Lautaro Martinez is understood to be on the Blues’ radarCredit: Getty
      It is understood that the 29-year-old, who was the Blues’ top scorer in the 2021-22 season with 15 goals in all competitions, is keen to re-join Inter.
      A loan deal could be on the cards with the Nerazzurri unwilling to match the player’s £325,000-a-week salary.
      Chelsea are said to be prepared to subsidise some of his wages as they look to offload the ex-Everton ace.
      Lukaku is seen as a top ‘priority’ and ‘primary need’ for Inter according to Calciomercato as they state that the Italian side will meet with his representatives on Tuesday.
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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 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 want Ousmane Dembele, Kounde ‘to be first Todd Boehly signing’
      After missing out on the Italian top-flight title by two points to rivals AC Milan, Inter are claimed to want to snap up Lukaku ‘quickly’.
      Should Chelsea allow Lukaku to depart, they could replace him with his former team-mate Martinez.
      According to The Athletic, Thomas Tuchel’s side are huge admirers of the Argentine ace.
      Chelsea have cash to splash this summer after the club’s £4.25bn takeover was confirmed on Monday.
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#dcdddd;background-color:#ffffff;}.css-14dqn90{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(4px/2);margin-right:calc(4px/2);}.css-12an5ma{font-family:The Sun;font-size:20px;line-height:1.2;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;padding:1px 0px;}.css-12an5ma::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.261875em + -1px);}.css-12an5ma::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:calc(-0.25em + -1.3px);}.css-1tob514{color:rgba(32,134,98,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;margin-right:4px;}.css-1tob514:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES NEWS .css-1efa55o{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1efa55o:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea want Ousmane Dembele, Kounde ‘to be first Todd Boehly signing’
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      But it has been stated that Martinez could prove to be too expensive for Chelsea, with RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku seen as a cheaper alternative.
      It is understood that Inter would only be prepared to part ways with the former Racing Club star should they receive a fee in the region of £51m.
      In what is expected to be a busy transfer window in West London, French winger Ousmane Dembele could be snapped up on a free.
      The 2018 World Cup winner had decided to run his contract down at Barcelona after rejecting numerous offers to extend his stay at the Nou Camp.
      Meanwhile Sevilla defender Jules Kounde remains on Chelsea’s radar after they failed to nab him last year.
      And Paris Saint-Germain right-back Achraf Hakimi is also a reported target to provide competition for Reece James. More

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      in Soccer

      How Chelsea lined up in Roman Abramovich’s first game 19 years ago and where are they now, including Forssell and Geremi

      by

      ROMAN ABRAMOVICH’S era as Chelsea owner has finally come to an end following confirmation Todd Boehly has taken over at Stamford Bridge.It concludes the Russian’s 19-year spell as Blues chief, a reign which has seen them collect five Premier League titles, FA Cups, three League Cups and two Champions Leagues.
      This was Chelsea’s team for their first match following Roman Abramovich’s takeover
      Chelsea supporters would not have believed the kind of success they were going to have had you told them back in 2003.
      However, it is important to remember that the team which Abramovich walked into Stamford Bridge with did secure them fourth place the previous season.
      We looked at the team which started the first match of the Abramovich era – a Champions League qualifier against Slovakian side MSK Zilna on August 13, 2003 – as well as where they are now.
      GK: Carlo Cudicini
      Carlo Cudicini joined Chelsea in 2000 and was first choice at the club until the arrival of Petr CechCredit: AFP
      Between the sticks was Carlo Cudicini – a man who would lose his long-standing No1 status the following season to Petr Cech.
      Nevertheless, he remained at Chelsea until 2009 before joining Tottenham and then LA Galaxy.
      Since retiring, he has returned to Stamford Bridge and is now the club’s technical coach for their plethora of loan players.
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      RB: Glen Johnson
      Glen Johnson was the first signing of the Abramovich era at ChelseaCredit: Gary Stone – The Sun
      Glen Johnson made his debut in this Champions League qualifier after becoming Abramovich’s first ever signing.
      He arrived from West Ham for £6million and stayed until 2007 when he joined Portsmouth.
      Nowadays he can be seen on BBC and talkSPORT as a pundit, but also has other interests which include a financial investment company and real estate business.
      CB: John Terry
      John Terry would go on to become one of Chelsea’s all-time great playersCredit: PA:Press Association
      John Terry, one of Chelsea’s greatest ever players, was vice-captain during the 2003-04 season, before then taking over as skipper and winning five Premier League titles.
      After his playing days finished at Aston Villa, he then became assistant coach to manager Dean Smith.
      Then at the beginning of 2022 he returned to Chelsea to take up a role as an academy coaching consultant.
      CB: Marcel Desailly
      World Cup winner Marcel Desailly partnered Terry at the backCredit: Reuters
      Marcel Desailly arrived at Chelsea as a World Cup winner with France.
      But, then aged 35, he would spend play just one Abramovich season before jetting off to Qatar in 2004.
      He retired in 2006 and can now be seen working for beIN SPORTS as a pundit.
      LB: Wayne Bridge
      Wayne Bridge started brilliantly at Chelsea before serious injuries curtailed his careerCredit: Reuters
      Wayne Bridge was another player who arrived at Chelsea just after Abramovich took over.
      However, he was often utilised as a back-up left-back during his six years with the Blues, with serious injuries curtailing a promising career.
      He also played for Manchester City after leaving Chelsea, before retiring in 2014.
      Since then he has been seen on reality TV – competing in both I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here and SAS: Who Dares Wins.
      RM: Geremi
      Geremi had a decent career as a versatile utility man for ChelseaCredit: Reuters
      Geremi was a key figure in Chelsea’s first season under Abramovich.
      But he then had to settle for a place as a utility man after Jose Mourinho’s arrival and eventually joined Newcastle in 2007.
      He is now on the board of FifPRO where he is attempting to help young African footballers fulfil their potential.
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      CM: Juan Sebastian Veron
      Juan Sebastian Veron arrived at Chelsea at the same time as Joe ColeCredit: Getty
      Juan Sebastian Veron joined Chelsea with much fanfare after being signed from Manchester United for £15m.
      He had struggled at Old Trafford, but Chelsea hoped his former manager Claudio Ranieri could get the best out of him.
      However, it did not work out for Veron in west London as he played just 14 times before being loaned out for two seasons to Inter Milan.
      He retired in 2014, came back in 2017 to play for Estudiantes, but then hung up his boots again after just five games.
      CM: Frank Lampard
      Like Terry, Frank Lampard would go on to become of Chelsea’s greatest ever playersCredit: PA:Press Association
      Frank Lampard is another of the true Chelsea greats who played in this game.
      He is their all-time top scorer with 211 goals in 648 appearances and was talismanic in a host of their trophy triumphs.
      After retiring, he took over as Chelsea manager in 2019 after a spell at Derby County but struggled to replicate the success he enjoyed as a player and was sacked after 18 months.
      He is currently Everton boss and recently narrowly avoided relegation with The Toffees.
      LM: Damien Duff
      Damien Duff arrived at Chelsea from Blackburn shortly after Abramovich came inCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Damien Duff joined Chelsea from Blackburn in the summer of 2003 for £17m.
      He scored 19 times in 125 games for the Blues before leaving for Newcastle in 2006.
      Since retiring, he has been a coach at Shamrock Rovers, Celtic and for the Ireland national team.
      He was then appointed the manager of League of Ireland Premier Division side Sherbourne FC in November – a role he still currently holds.
      ST: Eidur Gudjohnsen
      Eidur Gudjohnson scored the first goal of the Abramovich eraCredit: Reuters
      Icelandic striker Eidur Gudjohnson scored the first goal of the Abramovich era as Chelsea won the game 2-0.
      He netted 78 times in 268 appearances for the Blues before joining Barcelona in 2006 – where he would go on to win the Champions League.
      Gudjohnsen was recently the Iceland national team’s assistant coach, but left the role in 2021.
      ST: Mikael Forssell
      Mikeael Forssell barely played for Chelsea despite spending seven years on their booksCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      A very surprising name for this game and when it comes to the list of Chelsea strikers under Abramovich.
      Despite being a Blues player for seven years, several loan spells and unfortunate injuries meant he only made 53 appearances for the club – scoring 12 goals.
      He retired in 2018 and now works as an academy coach for Finnish outfit HJK. More

    • 200 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea Todd Boehly takeover COMPLETED, Lukaku lawyer ‘in Milan for Inter talks, Dembele ‘eyed’, transfer latest

      by

      CHELSEA’S takeover by Todd Boehly has been completed.And that means sanctions on the club are set to be lifted and the Blues’ summer transfer business can begin.
      However, the first deal for the Blues could be a departure, with mega signing from last summer Romelu Lukaku is pushing for a move out of the club according to reports.
      The Belgian’s lawyer is said to be travelling to Milan to negotiate with former club Inter.
      Meanwhile, Ousmane Dembele could be the first incoming of the Todd Boehly area despite rivals Liverpool eyeing a move for him.
      And RB Leipzig ace Christopher Nkunku has revealed that he is delighted with all the big clubs keeping tabs on him which is good news for Chelsea as they are reportedly one of those teams.
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      Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the Stamford Bridge…
      kunku speaks about future
      Christopher Nkunku has spoken about his future, amidst links to Man Utd, Chelsea and PSG.
      The Leipzig midfielder, currently on international duty with France, said: “Paris, I’ve always said it, it’s my home, my heart club.
      “I don’t close any doors. Everything is possible in football.
      “It’s flattering to have the biggest clubs in the world interested in me. But it’s also flattering that Leipzig is doing everything to keep me.
      “We are in June, and I am focused on this gathering.”
      Boehly completes takeover
      Todd Boehly’s takeover of Chelsea is officially complete.
      The American takes ownership from controversial former owner Roman Abramovich, who was sanctioned by the UK government over his ties to Russian president Vladimir Putin.
      Boehly said: “We are honoured to become the new custodians of Chelsea Football Club.
      “We’re all in – 100% — every minute of every match. Our vision as owners is clear: we want to make the fans proud.
      “Along with our commitment to developing the youth squad and acquiring the best talent, our plan of action is to invest in the Club for the long-term and build on Chelsea’s remarkable history of success.
      “I personally want to thank ministers and officials in the British government, and the Premier League, for all their work in making this happen.”
      The consortium also includes Hansjörg Wyss, founder of the Wyss Foundation, and Mark Walter, co-founder and CEO of Guggenheim Capital.
      Credit: PA
      Romelu Lukaku to leave on loan
      Romelu Lukaku could return to Inter Milan on loan this summer, according to reports.
      The Chelsea striker has endured an underwhelming spell since returning to Stamford Bridge for £97.5million last summer.
      Lukaku, 29, revealed in an explosive interview that he regrets the manner of his Inter exit… and that he hopes to return in future.
      And according to reports in Italy, the Belgian may get his wish this summer.
      Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Lukaku and Inter are both hoping to reach an agreement with Chelsea for the striker to return to San Siro.
      They add that in a meeting between Inter bosses last week, Lukaku’s name came up as a potential target.
      Barcelona may have the edge in signing Kounde, say reports
      Chelsea may face competition from Barcelona in the race to sign Jules Kounde, according to reports in Spain.
      Mundo Deportivo say Barca boss Xavi views the 23-year-old Sevilla star as a potential solution to his team’s defensive shortages.
      Mundo’s report explains the Catalans’ good relationship with Sevilla may give them the edge in securing Kounde’s services.
      It says Kounde would be the ‘icing on the cake for Xavi’ and he is the ‘signing in defense that the coach is most excited about’.
      It adds the nine-cap France star would allow Xavi to create a ‘powerful axis’ with Araujo in Barca’s defence for important games.
      High five
      Chelsea are set for a busy summer after Todd Boehly completed his £4.25bn takeover from Roman Abramovich.
      SunSport’s Etienne Fermie walks through five names that Chelsea could land in this transfer window…
      1 – DECLAN RICE
      Chelsea retain a long-term interest in Declan Rice, the man they released as a teenager.
      The West Ham ace has impressed immensely at London Stadium, but recently turned down an eight-year contract extension.
      Tuchel rates Rice highly and would love to recruit the England midfielder – although the Hammers will demand upwards of £100m.

      High five
      Chelsea are set for a busy summer after Todd Boehly completed his £4.25bn takeover from Roman Abramovich.
      SunSport’s Etienne Fermie walks through five names that Chelsea could land in this transfer window…
      2 – OUSMANE DEMBELE
      The Blues are reportedly closing in on Ousmane Dembele, with the Frenchman set to become the first signing of the Boehly era.
      Dembele, 25, is available on a free transfer after snubbing multiple offers from Barcelona.
      The winger already has a relationship with Tuchel, having worked successfully with the German at Borussia Dortmund.

      High five
      Chelsea are set for a busy summer after Todd Boehly completed his £4.25bn takeover from Roman Abramovich.
      SunSport’s Etienne Fermie walks through five names that Chelsea could land in this transfer window…
      3 – JULES KOUNDE
      Chelsea pushed hard to sign Sevilla defender Jules Kounde last summer, although the LaLiga side held firm.
      This summer, however, the Frenchman is set to be up for grabs, despite his defensive partner Diego Carlos having already ditched Seville for Aston Villa.
      SunSport recently revealed that Kounde is desperate to join Chelsea this summer – and can fill the void left by Rudiger and Christensen’s departures.

      High five
      Chelsea are set for a busy summer after Todd Boehly completed his £4.25bn takeover from Roman Abramovich.
      SunSport’s Etienne Fermie walks through five names that Chelsea could land in this transfer window…
      4 – CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU
      The Blues are reportedly ready to enter the race for rumoured Man United target Christopher Nkunku.
      Former PSG academy kid Nkunku enjoyed a stunning season at RB Leipzig, scoring 34 goals and laying on 20 assists from attacking midfield.
      The 24-year-old will cost a pretty penny, having been rated at £84million in some quarters.

      High five
      Chelsea are set for a busy summer after Todd Boehly completed his £4.25bn takeover from Roman Abramovich.
      SunSport’s Etienne Fermie walks through five names that Chelsea could land in this transfer window…
      5 – MARC CUCURELLA
      Chelsea are interested in signing Brighton wing-back Marc Cucurella.
      The Spaniard could be the perfect Alonso replacement, although the Blues will have to battle it out with Man City and Spurs to sign him.
      SunSport revealed last week that the Seagulls are set to demand £45m from potential suitors for their blossoming starlet.

      Merson on Chelsea American ties
      Chelsea could end up in decline like Arsenal under new American owner Todd Boehly.
      That’s according to Paul Merson who reckons American owners treat Prem clubs like toys.
      Merson said to the Daily Star: “Chelsea risk ending up like Arsenal unless their new American owners buck a worrying trend.
      “It’s a relief for everyone at Stamford Bridge that Todd Boehly’s takeover has gone through and they can finally sign players again.
      “But Chelsea is just a toy for them to play with. Look at all the other American owners in the Premier League – their US sports teams all do better than the teams they own over here. Look at Stan Kroenke at Arsenal.”
      Garden of Eden
      Eden Hazard banked Chelsea an extra £15million after winning the Champions League with Real Madrid, writes Jack Figg.
      Chelsea sold the winger in 2019 for £88.5million but the deal included performance bonuses that could take the fee to £130m.
      The Blues have already benefited in the past, earning nearly £20m in 2020 when Real won the LaLiga title and qualified for the Champions League.

      But an additional £15m would be added if the Spaniard’s became European champions with Hazard at the club.
      And it took only two years for Real to achieve the feat, beating Liverpool 1-0 in the Champions League final.
      Hazard, 31, was an unused sub and instead watched as Vinicius Junior, 21, scored the winner just after the hour mark.
      Bremer blow
      Chelsea have been dealt a blow in signing Brazilian Gleison Bremer.
      The centre back has been extensively watched by Blues scouts at Torino’s games.
      But now, Calcio Mercato have reported that Inter Milan have made the aggressive defender a priority this summer.
      The Premier League giants are losing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen from their backline, and are in desperate need of reinforcements at the back.
      They have also been linked with a move for RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol.
      Colwill speaks about future
      Talented youngster Levi Colwill has sent a message to the Blues over his future at the club.
      “For me, playing for Chelsea will always be the main aim right now because it’s my club,” he explained.
      “But if that doesn’t happen, well then I have to find other ways to progress and become the player I want to be.”
      The 19-year-old centre back has enjoyed a brilliant campaign with Huddersfield Town – playing 30 times in the Championship.
      Alonso ‘agrees’ contract with Barcelona
      Marcos Alonso is on the brink of signing for Barcelona, reports claim.
      The Chelsea defender has agreed a three-year deal with the Catalan giants, according to Diario SPORT.
      Alonso’s Chelsea contract expires next summer, but the Blues are hashing out a low price transfer with Barca, the report added.
      Rice could join Chelsea, says Johnson
      Glen Johnson spoke to Bettingodds about the potential of Declan Rice heading across London to join Thomas Tuchel’s team.
      Johnson said: “On a personal level for him, we know how close he is to Mason Mount, so if Mason Mount commits to a new long-term deal then we know how much of a pull Chelsea will be to Declan.
      “It’s another fantastic club and despite the fact they won’t win the league next season, that move may be a lot more appealing to him than Manchester United, if Manchester City or Liverpool don’t get the deal done.”
      Con air
      Thomas Tuchel will reportedly hold talks with Conor Gallagher over his Chelsea future amid interest from Crystal Palace, writes Ant Chapman.
      The midfielder, 22, enjoyed a stunning loan spell at Selhurst Park this season, scoring eight goals in 34 Premier League appearances.
      Gallagher’s fine form resulted in an England debut last year.
      And Palace are now eager to sign the ex-Charlton, Swansea and West Brom loanee permanently.
      But reports claim Gallagher is “highly rated” by Chelsea boss Tuchel.
      And the German wants “direct discussions” with the Cobham product before deciding on his next move.
      Lukaku pushes for exit
      Romelu Lukaku is taking matters into his own hands to try and push through a deal to Inter Milan.
      The Chelsea ace has started talking directly to the Blues to sort out his exit without the help of an agent, sempreinter reported.
      Lukaku hopes he can smooth things over with the Blues to get his transfer to Inter completed, the report added.
      Morning Chelsea fans
      Chelsea have been dealt a blow in signing Brazilian Gleison Bremer.
      The centre-back has been extensively watched by Blues scouts at Torino’s games.
      But now, Calcio Mercato have reported that Inter Milan have made the aggressive defender a priority this summer.
      They are set for a £15million windfall though, after Real Madrid won the Champions League.
      That’s because ex-Blues star Eden Hazard has a clause in his transfer to Real Madrid that included the lump sum if Los Blancos lifted the European trophy.
      And Real’s win over Liverpool means the Blues can now reap the rewards of their tidy business decision.
      Meanwhile, talented youngster Levi Colwill has sent a message to the Blues over his future at the club.
      “For me, playing for Chelsea will always be the main aim right now because it’s my club,” he explained.
      “But if that doesn’t happen, well then I have to find other ways to progress and become the player I want to be.”
      The 19-year-old centre-back has enjoyed a brilliant campaign with Huddersfield Town – playing 30 times in the Championship.
      Chelsea’s worst XI of 21st century
      Chelsea shot to European prominence following the arrival of Roman Abramovich shortly after the turn of the century.

      The Blues have won five Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns in the last 17 years, a sensational return for the club.
      However, they have still made seriously poor signings over the past two decades, with Chelsea fan Simon Phillips highlighting what he believes is the worst team made up of those flops.
      Bremer blow
      Chelsea have been dealt a blow in signing Brazilian Gleison Bremer.
      The centre back has been extensively watched by Blues scouts at Torino’s games.
      But now, Calcio Mercato have reported that Inter Milan have made the aggressive defender a priority this summer.
      The Premier League giants are losing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen from their backline, and are in desperate need of reinforcements at the back.
      They have also been linked with a move for RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol.
      Nkunku speaks about future
      Christopher Nkunku has spoken about his future, amidst links to Man Utd, Chelsea and PSG.
      The Leipzig midfielder, currently on international duty with France, said: “Paris, I’ve always said it, it’s my home, my heart club.
      “I don’t close any doors. Everything is possible in football.
      “It’s flattering to have the biggest clubs in the world interested in me. But it’s also flattering that Leipzig is doing everything to keep me.
      “We are in June, and I am focused on this gathering.”
      Happy birthday Di Matteo
      It’s happy birthday to Chelsea legend Roberto Di Matteo.
      The Italian ace turns 52 today.
      He famously played and managed the Blues in two different spells.
      Di Matteo scored the winner in an FA Cup final against Middlesbrough.
      While he also managed the club to their first ever Champions League title win.

      Colwill speaks about future
      Talented youngster Levi Colwill has sent a message to the Blues over his future at the club.
      “For me, playing for Chelsea will always be the main aim right now because it’s my club,” he explained.
      “But if that doesn’t happen, well then I have to find other ways to progress and become the player I want to be.”
      The 19-year-old centre back has enjoyed a brilliant campaign with Huddersfield Town – playing 30 times in the Championship.
      Alonso ‘agrees’ contract with Barcelona
      Marcos Alonso is on the brink of signing for Barcelona, reports claim.
      The Chelsea defender has agreed a three-year deal with the Catalan giants, according to Diario SPORT.
      Alonso’s Chelsea contract expires next summer, but the Blues are hashing out a low price transfer with Barca, the report added.
      Chelsea in line for Hazard windfall
      Chelsea are set for a £15million windfall after Real Madrid won the Champions League.
      That’s because ex-Blues star Eden Hazard has a clause in his transfer to Real Madrid that included the lump sum if Los Blancos lifted the European trophy.
      And Real’s win over Liverpool means the Blues can now reap the rewards of their tidy business decision.
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea ‘to allow Romelu Lukaku to leave on loan transfer with £325k-a-week salary subsidised by club’

      by

      ROMELU LUKAKU could return to Inter Milan on loan this summer, according to reports.The Chelsea striker has endured an underwhelming spell since returning to Stamford Bridge for £97.5million last summer.
      Romelu Lukaku could leave Chelsea this summerCredit: Getty
      Lukaku, 29, revealed in an explosive interview that he regrets the manner of his Inter exit… and that he hopes to return in future.
      And according to reports in Italy, the Belgian may get his wish this summer.
      Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Lukaku and Inter are both hoping to reach an agreement with Chelsea for the striker to return to San Siro.
      They add that in a meeting between Inter bosses last week, Lukaku’s name came up as a potential target.
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      The forward is eager to return to Inter, but his £325,000-a-week wages could prove to be a stumbling block.
      His salary would prohibit Inter from launching a permanent bid for him this summer.
      A loan move would be more feasible, although the Blues would have to stomach subsidising some of the striker’s wages.
      Lukaku is set to ditch agent Federico Pastorello, after being left furious by his claims to an Italian paper that his client had a “problem” with his current employers.
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      Seeking to clear things up, Lukaku wrote on social media: “Never ever will I let someone speak for me. I kept my mouth shut and focused on helping the team end the season in the best way possible.
      “So if someone out there is trying to say something about me and the club, it’s not in my name.”
      Speaking to Sky Sport Italia in December, however, Lukaku said: “The way I left Inter, the way I communicated with the fans, this annoys me, because this might not be the right time to say it, but back then it didn’t feel like the right moment either.
      “Now I think it’s right to speak, because I said that I will always have Inter in my heart and I genuinely hope to one day go back to play there.
      “I am in love with Italy, this is the time to let people know what really happened, without bad-mouthing anyone, because that’s not my style.
      “Now it’s the right time to share my feelings. I have always said that I have Inter in my heart: I know I will return to Inter, I really hope so.
      “I am in love with Italy, this is the right moment to talk and let people know what really happened.”
      Lukaku, 29, would like to return to Inter Milan one dayCredit: Reuters More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea transfer blow as Barcelona join Jules Kounde race with Sevilla defender on long-list of defensive targets

      by

      CHELSEA may face competition from Barcelona in the race to sign Jules Kounde, according to reports in Spain. Mundo Deportivo say Barca boss Xavi views the 23-year-old Sevilla star as a potential solution to his team’s defensive shortages.
      Sevilla ace Jules Kounde has caught the eye of a number of top clubsCredit: Rex
      The article explains Xavi feels he needs a ‘powerful central defender’ to shore up his backline.
      The Spaniard is looking for a centre-half with the same rugged attributes as current Barca star Ronald Araujo.
      Barca also want to bring in free-agent Chelsea defenders Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta.
      But neither have the ‘physical profile’ Xavi wants as cover for Araujo, according to Mundo.
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      Sevilla have vowed to play hardball over Kounde’s £68million release clause – and that could be a problem for financially-hit Barca.
      But Mundo’s report explains the Catalans’ good relationship with Sevilla may give them the edge in securing Kounde’s services.
      It says Kounde would be the ‘icing on the cake for Xavi’ and he is the ‘signing in defense that the coach is most excited about’.
      It adds the nine-cap France star would allow Xavi to create a ‘powerful axis’ with Araujo in Barca’s defence for important games.
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      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      The Blues need Kounde to help plug a gaping hole likely to be left in their defence by summer departures from Stamford Bridge.
      Centre-backs Antonio Rudiger and Christensen have quit on free transfers, while skipper Azpilicueta is also keen to leave after a decade at the club. More