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    ‘We’re losing him’ – Thomas Tuchel finally CONFIRMS Andreas Christensen will quit Chelsea days after FA Cup controversy

    ANDREAS CHRISTENSEN will leave Chelsea at the end of the season, Thomas Tuchel has revealed.Christensen, 26, has spent nine years at Chelsea but is out of contract in the summer.
    Andreas Christensen is set to join Barcelona this summerCredit: Getty
    The Blues had offered him a new contract but uncertainty surrounding the takeover cast doubt on his future.
    And now Tuchel has confirmed his exit this summer, stating: “We’re losing him.”
    According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano Christensen agreed a deal with Barcelona weeks ago, with the Spanish giants also linked to Cesar Azpilicueta.
    Tuchel confirmed the news while revealing Christensen refused to play in the FA Cup final.
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    The Dane said he was not ready to play against Liverpool despite completing 90 minutes against Leeds a few days prior.
    A source close to Christensen claimed the player had felt unwell in the days leading up to the biggest domestic match of the season.
    But fellow Chelsea stars were left bewildered when Christensen left the team hotel.
    His departure leaves Tuchel desperately short at the back so his priority when the transfer window opens could be to sign a defender.
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    Chelsea are still said to be keen on Sevilla star Jules Kounde after having multiple bids for the centre-back rejected last summer.
    Villarreal star Pau Torres is also believed to have caught Chelsea’s eye but Manchester United will battle the West Londoners for the Spaniard. More

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    Chelsea ‘line up £42m Casemiro transfer’ whilst being ‘in hunt’ for Lewandowski, Perisic ‘prefers’ Juve move – updates

    CHELSEA are lining up a summer move for Real Madrid sensation Casemiro according to reports.Thomas Tuchel is hoping to bolster his midfield for next season and the Brazilian is being considered as one of many options.
    Meanwhile, Ivan Perisic reportedly prefers a move to Juventus despite claims that the Croatian has agreed terms with the Blues.
    However, rumours suggest that Chelsea have set their sights on Robert Lewandowski instead who has made it clear to Bayern Munich that he wants out as soon as possible.
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    Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the takeover in our live blog…
    Tuchel wants Mount investigation
    Thomas Tuchel called for an investigation into abuse aimed at Mason Mount after having his FA Cup final penalty saved.
    The 23-year-old Chelsea midfielder was subjected to four-letter rants and branded a ‘bottle job’ by online trolls on social media.
    Mount’s spot-kick was stopped by Alisson moments before Kostas Tsimikas stepped up to clinch a first FA Cup in 16 years for Liverpool in a 6-5 shootout win.
    Chelsea boss Tuchel said: “Nothing I can say will stop these guys doing it. I don’t understand social media anyway. It has a huge impact and I don’t get it.
    “I’m not on social media and it keeps me healthy, more healthy than I would be on it. It’s a very thin ice for everybody who is in such a spotlight to be out there. Abuse is not acceptable, be it here or on social media.
    “If someone thinks he has the right to write it, we will not be able to stop him — but maybe we can investigate.”

    Christensen shock
    Andreas Christensen pulled out of Chelsea’s FA Cup final squad just hours before kick off – leaving team-mates stunned.
    The defender told boss Thomas Tuchel that he was not ready to play.
    Christensen had played the whole 90 minutes of the previous match at Leeds.
    Surprised Tuchel was forced into an emergency reshuffle of his Wembley plans and started rookie Trevoh Chalobah in the Denmark centre back’s absence.
    Chelsea went on to lose the final 6-5 on penalties to Liverpool after extra time.
    An hour after the final whistle Tuchel confirmed that Christensen is leaving Chelsea when the season finishes next Sunday.
    Perisic prefers Juve move
    Transfer target Ivan Perisic would reportedly prefer a move to Juventus, despite claims the Blues have agreed a deal with the Croatian.
    The 33-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, and has yet to agree to a deal with his club, Inter Milan.
    According to Sports Mediaset, Chelsea have agreed a deal with the midfielder on a free transfer as his contract draws to a close.
    But now Get Football News Italy report that Perisic is said to favour staying in Serie A.
    And it has been claimed that Turin would be his preferred destination, instead of West London.
    Guess who
    This Chelsea legend and serial trophy winner looks unrecognisable with a new hairstyle and trendy goatee beard.
    But can you guess who it is?

    This former Stamford Bridge favourite used to run the show from midfield each week.
    Making an instant impact in London, he spent five-and-a-half years with Chelsea.
    And he also won an impressive 52 caps for his country.
    Guessed who it is yet?
    It is Blues icon and former Brazilian midfield ace Ramires.
    Rudiger’s exit
    Antonio Rudiger wanted his Chelsea career to end on a high, following a disappointing campaign.
    The giant defender has agreed a contract with Real Madrid after the Blues failed to agree a new deal with the German international.
    Rudiger told The Athletic: “There was a chance but sanctions are not the problem. I don’t want to go too deep in things. At the end of the day it’s not only about one side (helping the other), it’s both sides — Chelsea have been great to me, I have been great to Chelsea.
    “As always, I am very, very thankful me, my family. I became a man here. My kids were born here and everything. London and especially Chelsea will always be special to me.
    “It’s been five years as normal with ups and downs, but with a lot of positive things. That’s why I’m even more frustrated because I wanted to have a different ending.”
    Chelsea in Lewandowski hunt
    Chelsea are reportedly in the chase for Poland legend Robert Lewandowski.
    According to Jan Age Fjortoft, the Blues could add the Bayern Munich striker to their ranks next season.
    However, the ex-Norway striker revealed that Barcelona are still the favourites for his signature, if he is to leave the Bavarians.

    Chelsea Women win Cup
    Chelsea Women did what the men couldn’t by winning the FA Cup.
    Emma Hayes’ side recorded a 3-2 win over Man City after extra time – thanks to a Sam Kerr strike.
    Credit: Reuters
    The Aussie striker had given the Blues the lead in the first half, only for Lauren Hemp to equalise.
    Erin Cuthbert put Chelsea ahead again, before Hayley Raso scored a dramatic 89th minute equaliser.
    However, it was Kerr who would decide things in the 99th minute and break City’s fans’ hearts.
    Shearer’s Werner claim
    Alan Shearer believes Chelsea and Thomas Tuchel went wrong by not playing Timo Werner against Liverpool in the FA Cup fina.
    “With Chelsea, Havertz is injured. But I’m surprised Werner’s not playing, because of his pace, because of the high line we know Liverpool play,” Shearer said.
    “I know he gets offside a lot but it would have been a huge threat for him to be running behind.”
    Tuchel explains Loftus-Cheek decision
    Thomas Tuchel has revealed why he subbed Ruben Loftus-Cheek ahead of the ill-fated penalty shoot-out against Liverpool.
    Loftus-Cheek had barely got involved in the action having being brought on shortly before getting subbed for Ross Barkely as penalties loomed.
    And explaining his decision to do so, Tuchel said: “No, that was purely for penalties.
    “Ruben has not got a good history, statistically, and Ross has so it was purely because of the penalties.”
    Rudiger’s Real choice
    Antonio Rudiger was so intent on a move to Real Madrid he reportedly turned down more lucrative offers from a number of European heavyweights.
    Both PSG and Bayern Munich tried to snatch Rudiger from Real’s clutches by offering him more money, according to Diario AS.
    And Bayern were the most keen on Rudiger after getting dumped out the Champions League by Villarreal, the report also states.
    However, the chance to play for Real was too good to turn down and the defender ultimately opted for a move to the Bernabeu.
    Perisic wants Juve transfer
    Chelsea transfer target Ivan Perisic is reportedly eyeing a move to Juventus.
    Reports have claimed that the Inter Milan star has worked out a deal with Chelsea.
    But according to GetfootballnewsItaly, Perisic would prefer a move to Juve.
    Salah will make final
    Mo Salah will be available to play in the Champions League final despite picking up an injury on Saturday.
    The winger, 29, was forced off with a groin injury 33 minutes into the FA Cup final against Chelsea.
    While it looked very concerning for the Reds at the time, Salah has since confirmed that it is nothing serious.
    When asked if he was okay after the game, he replied: “All good” and reassured fans that he would be available for the Champions League final against Real Madrid later this month.
    Vidic names toughest opponents
    Man United legend Nemanja Vidic has named the four toughest opponents he faced in the Premier League.
    Peter Crouch was the first Liverpool striker Vidic bemoaned facing.
    Vidic also mentioned Chelsea great Didier Drogba and his lethal combination of strength and intelligence.
    Vidic’s watchlist finished with Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero and former Reds star Luis Suarez.
    Vidic made the admissions to The Athletic.
    Ten Hag wants Kante
    Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been linked with a sensational swoop for N’Golo Kante this summer in a bid to bolster his midfield options next season.
    According to The Mirror, chiefs at Manchester United, including Ten Hag, believe a swoop for Kante is a realistic proposition.
    The news comes after SunSport exclusively revealed that the Blues were fearing Kante would be one of a number of players on their way out of the club.
    Wright’s sympathy for Mason Mount
    Ian Wright has admitted that he feels sorry for Mason Mount after the player missed a penalty in Chelsea’s FA Cup final loss to Liverpool.
    Wright said: “I’m disappointed for Mason Mount because when a player misses a penalty at this level with so much on the line.
    “You’ve got to feel gutted for him.”
    Tuchel on Chelsea’s season
    Thomas Tuchel reckons Chelsea have had a good season despite losing to cup finals to Liverpool thus far.
    And he pointed to Chelsea’s success in the World Club Cup and European Super Cup as proof that the Blues are capable of challenging for trophies.
    He said: “I think we have what it takes to win trophies and we proved it.
    “Somebody wanted to convince me that we had a trophy-less season but we have the World Club Cup and the European Super Cup.
    “We did everything to win these two matches but we have to accept that our opponents deserve also to win these matches and they did it.”
    Keane’s disdain for Fabregas
    Roy Keane once threatened to ‘smash Cesc Fabregas in’ when the midfielder clattered into him.
    Fabregas risked Keane’s wrath after tackling the Irishman really hard when Arsenal played Man United in the FA Cup final.
    Keane let Gerard Pique know just how close Fabregas was to a beating a few years later.
    Fabregas recalled to The Times: “I tackled Roy Keane really hard and I felt really good about it because he was always giving me a tough time.
    “A few years later, Gerard Pique [his friend from Barcelona’s La Masia academy] said to me that at half-time Keane said, ‘That Spanish friend of yours, I will smash him, he killed me.’”
    Suarez praises Liverpool
    Luis Suarez took the time to congratulate former club Liverpool for their FA Cup final win over Chelsea.
    The Reds edged a thrilling penalty shoot-out to lift the cup.
    And Suarez was full of praise for his old club.
    He wrote on social media: “Congratulations to @LiverpoolFC for winning the FA Cup! YNWA.”
    Alisson’s plan to stop Mendy
    Alisson devised a secret plot to stop Edouard Mendy from playing mind games on Liverpool’s FA Cup Final penalty takers – by hand delivering the ball to his teammates.
    The Chelsea ‘keeper has a history of interfering during penalties when helping Senegal to beat Egypt via spot-kicks in the Africa Cup of Nations final in February.
    Alisson was adamant that would not happen again, and he scooped up the ball after each Chelsea kick and walked straight to his pal to give them it.
    Only Sadio Mane, Mendy’s international teammate, missed a penalty for Liverpool.
    Rudiger speaks on frustration
    Antonio Rudiger is frustrated that he hasn’t left Chelsea with a FA Cup winner medal after yesterday’s loss to Liverpool.
    Rudiger said after the game: “It’s been five years as normal with ups and downs, but with a lot of positive things,” the Germany international said.
    “That’s why I’m even more frustrated because I wanted to have a different ending.”
    Terry reveals FA Cup pain
    John Terry revealed he was devastated after witnessing Chelsea’s FA Cup final loss.
    But the Blues legend still found the time to praise Liverpool’s Luis Diaz who was the game’s Man Of The Match.
    Terry said on Instagram in a message that Diaz shared: “Absolutely devastated, but you are a fantastic player my friend.”
    Rudiger explains quitting reasons
    Antonio Rudiger has dismissed the theory that Government sanctions are behind his decision to quit Chelsea.
    The German defender is leaving for Real Madrid on a free transfer once the Premier League season finishes on Sunday week.
    Strict rules imposed due to owner Roman Abramovich’s links to Russian tyrant Vladimir Putin have banned Chelsea from negotiating new contracts with existing players but Rudiger insists it was other issues which stopped him staying.
    But Rudiger, who suffered FA Cup Final defeat to Liverpool on Saturday, said: “There was a chance but sanctions are not the problem. I don’t want to go too deep in things.
    “At the end of the day it’s not only about one side (helping the other), it’s both sides – Chelsea have been great to me, I have been great to Chelsea.
    “As always, I am very, very thankful me, my family. I became a man here. My kids were born here and everything. London and especially Chelsea will always be special to me.”
    Mo Salah’s classy gesture
    Mohamed Salah invited former Egypt team-mate Moamen Zakaria into the Liverpool dressing room to celebrate their FA Cup win over Chelsea.
    Salah was forced to watch a large part of Saturday’s final from the sidelines after being forced off through injury.
    Liverpool’s epic dressing room celebrations where shared with former Egypt star Zakaria, who has motor neurone disease, after he was invited in by Salah.
    Hav some of that
    Kai Havertz, was also another absentee from the squad due to a hamstring injury.
    Discussing the problems afterwards, he said: “Kai did not train because of hamstring problems and we thought he would injure himself.
    “We did a test on Saturday morning but it was not better.”
    Tuch and go for Werner
    Thomas Tuchel has revealed Timo Werner told him he did not want to play in the FA Cup Final after suffering a problem in the warm-up.
    Chelsea fans were shocked as the German forward was left as an unused substitute during the penalty shootout defeat to Liverpool at Wembley.
    He said: “Timo felt uncomfortable in the warm-up and said he could not play.
    “A hamstring as well. We had no options.”
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    Chelsea ‘line up £42m Casemiro transfer’, Perisic ‘AGREES Blues deal’, Tuchel blasts Mount abuse – latest updates

    CHELSEA suffered a THIRD consecutive FA Cup final loss to ensure they end up trophyless this season.But they are reportedly already laying the foundations for next season in terms of the playing staff.
    Thomas Tuchel’s side could have done with Inter Milan ace Ivan Perisic at Wembley, who has reportedly agreed terms with the West London outfit.
    The Blues are also reported to be interested in a £42m deal for Real Madrid star Casemiro.
    And Tuchel has hit out at social media trolls sending abuse to Mason Mount over his missed penalty.
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    Shearer’s Werner claim
    Alan Shearer believes Chelsea and Thomas Tuchel went wrong by not playing Timo Werner against Liverpool in the FA Cup fina.
    “With Chelsea, Havertz is injured. But I’m surprised Werner’s not playing, because of his pace, because of the high line we know Liverpool play,” Shearer said.
    “I know he gets offside a lot but it would have been a huge threat for him to be running behind.”
    Tuchel explains Loftus-Cheek decision
    Thomas Tuchel has revealed why he subbed Ruben Loftus-Cheek ahead of the ill-fated penalty shoot-out against Liverpool.
    Loftus-Cheek had barely got involved in the action having being brought on shortly before getting subbed for Ross Barkely as penalties loomed.
    And explaining his decision to do so, Tuchel said: “No, that was purely for penalties.
    “Ruben has not got a good history, statistically, and Ross has so it was purely because of the penalties.”
    Rudiger’s Real choice
    Antonio Rudiger was so intent on a move to Real Madrid he reportedly turned down more lucrative offers from a number of European heavyweights.
    Both PSG and Bayern Munich tried to snatch Rudiger from Real’s clutches by offering him more money, according to Diario AS.
    And Bayern were the most keen on Rudiger after getting dumped out the Champions League by Villarreal, the report also states.
    However, the chance to play for Real was too good to turn down and the defender ultimately opted for a move to the Bernabeu.
    Perisic wants Juve transfer
    Chelsea transfer target Ivan Perisic is reportedly eyeing a move to Juventus.
    Reports have claimed that the Inter Milan star has worked out a deal with Chelsea.
    But according to GetfootballnewsItaly, Perisic would prefer a move to Juve.
    Salah will make final
    Mo Salah will be available to play in the Champions League final despite picking up an injury on Saturday.
    The winger, 29, was forced off with a groin injury 33 minutes into the FA Cup final against Chelsea.
    While it looked very concerning for the Reds at the time, Salah has since confirmed that it is nothing serious.
    When asked if he was okay after the game, he replied: “All good” and reassured fans that he would be available for the Champions League final against Real Madrid later this month.
    Vidic names toughest opponents
    Man United legend Nemanja Vidic has named the four toughest opponents he faced in the Premier League.
    Peter Crouch was the first Liverpool striker Vidic bemoaned facing.
    Vidic also mentioned Chelsea great Didier Drogba and his lethal combination of strength and intelligence.
    Vidic’s watchlist finished with Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero and former Reds star Luis Suarez.
    Vidic made the admissions to The Athletic.
    Ten Hag wants Kante
    Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been linked with a sensational swoop for N’Golo Kante this summer in a bid to bolster his midfield options next season.
    According to The Mirror, chiefs at Manchester United, including Ten Hag, believe a swoop for Kante is a realistic proposition.
    The news comes after SunSport exclusively revealed that the Blues were fearing Kante would be one of a number of players on their way out of the club.
    Wright’s sympathy for Mason Mount
    Ian Wright has admitted that he feels sorry for Mason Mount after the player missed a penalty in Chelsea’s FA Cup final loss to Liverpool.
    Wright said: “I’m disappointed for Mason Mount because when a player misses a penalty at this level with so much on the line.
    “You’ve got to feel gutted for him.”
    Tuchel on Chelsea’s season
    Thomas Tuchel reckons Chelsea have had a good season despite losing to cup finals to Liverpool thus far.
    And he pointed to Chelsea’s success in the World Club Cup and European Super Cup as proof that the Blues are capable of challenging for trophies.
    He said: “I think we have what it takes to win trophies and we proved it.
    “Somebody wanted to convince me that we had a trophy-less season but we have the World Club Cup and the European Super Cup.
    “We did everything to win these two matches but we have to accept that our opponents deserve also to win these matches and they did it.”
    Keane’s disdain for Fabregas
    Roy Keane once threatened to ‘smash Cesc Fabregas in’ when the midfielder clattered into him.
    Fabregas risked Keane’s wrath after tackling the Irishman really hard when Arsenal played Man United in the FA Cup final.
    Keane let Gerard Pique know just how close Fabregas was to a beating a few years later.
    Fabregas recalled to The Times: “I tackled Roy Keane really hard and I felt really good about it because he was always giving me a tough time.
    “A few years later, Gerard Pique [his friend from Barcelona’s La Masia academy] said to me that at half-time Keane said, ‘That Spanish friend of yours, I will smash him, he killed me.’”
    Suarez praises Liverpool
    Luis Suarez took the time to congratulate former club Liverpool for their FA Cup final win over Chelsea.
    The Reds edged a thrilling penalty shoot-out to lift the cup.
    And Suarez was full of praise for his old club.
    He wrote on social media: “Congratulations to @LiverpoolFC for winning the FA Cup! YNWA.”
    Alisson’s plan to stop Mendy
    Alisson devised a secret plot to stop Edouard Mendy from playing mind games on Liverpool’s FA Cup Final penalty takers – by hand delivering the ball to his teammates.
    The Chelsea ‘keeper has a history of interfering during penalties when helping Senegal to beat Egypt via spot-kicks in the Africa Cup of Nations final in February.
    Alisson was adamant that would not happen again, and he scooped up the ball after each Chelsea kick and walked straight to his pal to give them it.
    Only Sadio Mane, Mendy’s international teammate, missed a penalty for Liverpool.
    Rudiger speaks on frustration
    Antonio Rudiger is frustrated that he hasn’t left Chelsea with a FA Cup winner medal after yesterday’s loss to Liverpool.
    Rudiger said after the game: “It’s been five years as normal with ups and downs, but with a lot of positive things,” the Germany international said.
    “That’s why I’m even more frustrated because I wanted to have a different ending.”
    Terry reveals FA Cup pain
    John Terry revealed he was devastated after witnessing Chelsea’s FA Cup final loss.
    But the Blues legend still found the time to praise Liverpool’s Luis Diaz who was the game’s Man Of The Match.
    Terry said on Instagram in a message that Diaz shared: “Absolutely devastated, but you are a fantastic player my friend.”
    Rudiger explains quitting reasons
    Antonio Rudiger has dismissed the theory that Government sanctions are behind his decision to quit Chelsea.
    The German defender is leaving for Real Madrid on a free transfer once the Premier League season finishes on Sunday week.
    Strict rules imposed due to owner Roman Abramovich’s links to Russian tyrant Vladimir Putin have banned Chelsea from negotiating new contracts with existing players but Rudiger insists it was other issues which stopped him staying.
    But Rudiger, who suffered FA Cup Final defeat to Liverpool on Saturday, said: “There was a chance but sanctions are not the problem. I don’t want to go too deep in things.
    “At the end of the day it’s not only about one side (helping the other), it’s both sides – Chelsea have been great to me, I have been great to Chelsea.
    “As always, I am very, very thankful me, my family. I became a man here. My kids were born here and everything. London and especially Chelsea will always be special to me.”
    Mo Salah’s classy gesture
    Mohamed Salah invited former Egypt team-mate Moamen Zakaria into the Liverpool dressing room to celebrate their FA Cup win over Chelsea.
    Salah was forced to watch a large part of Saturday’s final from the sidelines after being forced off through injury.
    Liverpool’s epic dressing room celebrations where shared with former Egypt star Zakaria, who has motor neurone disease, after he was invited in by Salah.
    Hav some of that
    Kai Havertz, was also another absentee from the squad due to a hamstring injury.
    Discussing the problems afterwards, he said: “Kai did not train because of hamstring problems and we thought he would injure himself.
    “We did a test on Saturday morning but it was not better.”
    Tuch and go for Werner
    Thomas Tuchel has revealed Timo Werner told him he did not want to play in the FA Cup Final after suffering a problem in the warm-up.
    Chelsea fans were shocked as the German forward was left as an unused substitute during the penalty shootout defeat to Liverpool at Wembley.
    He said: “Timo felt uncomfortable in the warm-up and said he could not play.
    “A hamstring as well. We had no options.”
    Lew ‘agrees 3-year Barca deal’
    Robert Lewandowski has reportedly agreed a three-year contract with Barcelona.
    The Pole has been linked with a move to the Nou Camp after snubbing a new deal at Bayern Munich.
    He still has a year to run on his existing agreement with the Bundesliga side but they have now confirmed that the forward wants to leave them.
    The Times state that Lewandowski is set to join Barcelona.
    And they report that he has verbally agreed to sign a three-year contract with them.
    Now all that remains is for them to thrash out a transfer fee for him.
    Confirming that Lewandowski, who has scored 49 goals for the club this term, wants to go, Bayern’s sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic told Sky Germany: “I spoke with Lewa.
    “In that discussion he informed me that he does not want to accept our offer to extend the contract and that he would like to leave the club.
    “He said he wants to do something else. But our position has not changed.
    “The fact is he has a contract to June 30, 2023.”
    Klopp and Tuchel agree…
    Managers Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel agreed Liverpool’s FA Cup final glory came down to ‘tiny margins’.
    Cesar Azpilicueta and Mason Mount missed penalties as the Reds repeated their Carabao Cup shootout joy over the same opponents, this time with a 6-5 success following a goalless 120 minutes.
    And Liverpool boss Klopp ‘couldn’t be prouder’ after his ‘mentality monsters’ won an ‘incredible, tense’ final.
    Counterpart Tuchel claimed he was sure Chelsea would win – ‘until the final minute’.
    So it’s two down, two to go, in Liverpool’s Quadruple hunt.
    And skipper Jordan Henderson believes today’s triumph shows ‘attitude, personalities and incredible talent’ are their driving force.
    ‘Sad’ Tuchel felt sure Chelsea would win
    Thomas Tuchel claims he was sure Chelsea would win the FA Cup final – right up to Liverpool’s final shootout penalty.
    The Blues boss praised his ‘excellent’ side for shutting out ‘maybe the most dangerous attacking team in the world’ as the Reds triumphed 6-5 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes.
    And he revealed just how confident he was that they would come out on top – after Liverpool beat them the same way in February’s Carabao Cup final.
    He told the Wembley press conference: “No regrets. I’m proud of the team.
    “We were sure we could make life for Liverpool difficult  – and we did again.
    “We struggled in the first 15 minutes then we were excellent and played a goalless draw against maybe the most dangerous attacking team in the world.
    “I was sure before the match and I was sure during the game we would win.
    “I was sure momentum was on our side and I was sure until the very last minute and unfortunately I was not right.”
    Mason’s lost all his six Wembley finals
    Mason Mount missed a crucial penalty in Chelsea’s FA Cup final defeat to Liverpool, condemning himself to SIX consecutive Wembley final defeats.
    The Blues academy product stepped up and missed his sudden death spot-kick in the penalty shootout, before Liverpool ace Konstantinos Tsimikas wrapped the game up.
    It means the England and Chelsea ace has now lost SIX consecutive finals at Wembley in his professional career.
    Mount’s bad luck at the national team’s stadium started back in 2019 during his loan spell at Derby.
    The 23-year-old was playing under Frank Lampard at the time but lost to Aston Villa in the Championship play-off final. He then followed it up with back-to-back FA Cup defeats in 2020 and 2021.
    Mount then suffered heartbreak with England, who were penalties away from their first major trophy since 1966, but they were toppled by Italy.
    And this season, back-to-back losses to Liverpool on penalties in both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup added more insult to injury for the Chelsea fan. Mount’s bad luck is leading to some fans believing the midfielder is “cursed”. One fan said on Twitter: “Mason Mount is really cursed at Wembley.”
    Trolls target ‘bottle job’ Mason
    Mason Mount has been branded a “bottle job” by brutal trolls online after his FA Cup final penalty miss, writes TOM SHEEN.
    The Chelsea star played the full 120 minutes as his side battled with Liverpool under the Wembley arch.
    Like in February’s League Cup final, the two sides couldn’t be separated – with neither able to score in two hours of play.

    The match went to penalties, with Mount not stepping up until the Blues’ seventh spot kick – after forgotten man Ross Barkley.
    Cesar Azpilicueta had already missed from 12 yards, only to be bailed out by Edouard Mendy’s save from Sadio Mane.
    Mount wouldn’t be so lucky, with Kostas Tsimikas tucking away the following penalty to seal a 6-5 shoot-out win for the Reds.
    Social media was subsequently full of trolls criticising Mount for failing to score. One wrote: “Mason Mount’s a bottle job pass it on.”
    Another asked: “Mason Mount the biggest bottle job in football?”
    Pointing out his record, one fan wrote: “Mason Mount is the biggest bottle job ever 6 finals now init?” Another pointed out: “When it’s Mount he’s cursed but when it’s Kane he’s a serial bottler.”
    A kinder fan pointed out: “He’s rather a blessed one @masonmount_10. How many people get such finals to play. His time will come. Even Klopp has started winning trophies.”
    Klopp hails his ‘outstanding mentality monsters’
    Boss Jurgen Klopp praised Liverpool’s nerves of steel as they completed a domestic shootout double over Chelsea.
    Klopp told the BBC: “Outstanding, it was an incredible, intense game against Chelsea – they would have deserved it [the win] exactly the same way, like in the Carabao Cup – that’s how small the margins are.
    “I couldn’t be more proud of my boys, the shift they put in, how hard they fought, early changes.
    “All of these things, missing good chances, overcoming good moments from Chelsea, then having really good moments ourselves.
    “Then in the penalty shootout, it was nerve-racking, my nails are gone but I really feel for Chelsea – for the second time, 120 minutes and you get nothing, that’s too hard. But for us I’m pretty happy.
    “We are mentality monsters but there were mentality monsters in blue as well – it was one penalty.
    “Chelsea played outstanding but in the end there must be one winner and that was us today.”
    Blues lack killer Tuch
    Chelsea suffered shootout heartbreak at the hands of Liverpool for the second time this season, writes JACK ROSSER.
    Jurgen Klopp’s side are still on for a remarkable quadruple after both Cesar Azpilicueta and Mason Mount failed from the spot at Wembley, handing the Reds a first FA Cup under the German.

    Chelsea had to ride their luck at times – recovering after a terrible start in which Luis Diaz could have scored twice.
    But they had plenty of chances themselves and were too wasteful when it really mattered.
    American Christian Pulisic sent good chances agonisingly wide in either half while he should have played a better ball for Marcos Alonso in the first half.
    Alonso was racing through but the pass forced him into a heavy touch, allowing Alisson to save.
    Pulisic was Chelsea’s most dangerous player – but fell short when it mattered most.
    Boss Thomas Tuchel must shoulder some blame too. With Liverpool leaving acres of space thanks to their high line, Pulisic had showed that pace could hurt them.
    Despite that, Tuchel decided to keep a confident Timo Werner on the bench throughout, instead turning to Hakim Ziyech and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to bolster the forward line.
    It is desperately cruel to lose on penalties again, especially with one Chelsea legend, Azpilicueta, and another in the making, Mount, being the ones to let the Blues down.
    Tuchel’s true task at Chelsea is to ensure they mix it with Liverpool and Manchester City at the top of the table next season. After four draws from four games against Liverpool this season Chelsea will feel close to doing that. To make that next step, they need a killer touch at the crucial times.
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    Antonio Rudiger explains Chelsea transfer exit but says Government sanctions aren’t behind decision to quit for Madrid

    ANTONIO RUDIGER has dismissed the theory that Government sanctions are behind his decision to quit Chelsea.The German defender is leaving for Real Madrid on a free transfer once the Premier League season finishes on Sunday week.
    Antonio Rudiger has opened up on his reasons for leaving ChelseaCredit: Reuters
    Strict rules imposed due to owner Roman Abramovich’s links to Russian tyrant Vladimir Putin have banned Chelsea from negotiating new contracts with existing players but Rudiger insists it was other issues which stopped him staying.
    But Rudiger, who suffered FA Cup Final defeat to Liverpool on Saturday, said: “There was a chance but sanctions are not the problem. I don’t want to go too deep in things.
    “At the end of the day it’s not only about one side (helping the other), it’s both sides – Chelsea have been great to me, I have been great to Chelsea.
    “As always, I am very, very thankful me, my family. I became a man here. My kids were born here and everything. London and especially Chelsea will always be special to me.”
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    “It’s been five years as normal with ups and downs, but with a lot of positive things.
    “That’s why I’m even more frustrated because I wanted to have a different ending.”
    Rudiger will earn £400K a week in Madrid – eclipsing what Chelsea were prepared to pay. 
    He has still won every major trophy bar the EFL Cup in half a decade at Chelsea but is heartbroken at losing three FA Cup finals in a row.
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    He said: “It’s always difficult to say whether we are lucky or unlucky.
    “For myself it’s the third time, so you can’t always say unlucky, unlucky, unlucky.”
    “We had chances, they had chances. But at the end of the day we know that penalties are always a lottery. We lost.
    “At the end of the day it’s about winning. It’s about today, it’s not about next season.
    “The game was about today and it was there to take and, yeah, unfortunately we didn’t.” More

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    FA Cup final REACTION as Blues lose to Liverpool, Chelsea ‘AGREE Ivan Perisic deal’, Lukaku blasts his OWN agent

    CHELSEA suffered a THIRD consecutive FA Cup final loss when they were beaten by Liverpool on penalties.The Blues had their fair share of chances, but Cesar Azpilicueta and Mason Mount’s misses turned out to be pivotal in the shoot-out.
    Thomas Tuchel’s side could have done with Inter Milan ace Ivan Perisic who has reportedly agreed terms with the West London outfit.
    And he could be Romelu Lukaku’s replacement who has not been happy with his agents recent comments.
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    Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the takeover in our live blog…
    Lew ‘agrees 3-year Barca deal’
    Robert Lewandowski has reportedly agreed a three-year contract with Barcelona.
    The Pole has been linked with a move to the Nou Camp after snubbing a new deal at Bayern Munich.
    He still has a year to run on his existing agreement with the Bundesliga side but they have now confirmed that the forward wants to leave them.
    The Times state that Lewandowski is set to join Barcelona.
    And they report that he has verbally agreed to sign a three-year contract with them.
    Now all that remains is for them to thrash out a transfer fee for him.
    Confirming that Lewandowski, who has scored 49 goals for the club this term, wants to go, Bayern’s sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic told Sky Germany: “I spoke with Lewa.
    “In that discussion he informed me that he does not want to accept our offer to extend the contract and that he would like to leave the club.
    “He said he wants to do something else. But our position has not changed.
    “The fact is he has a contract to June 30, 2023.”
    Klopp and Tuchel agree…
    Managers Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel agreed Liverpool’s FA Cup final glory came down to ‘tiny margins’.
    Cesar Azpilicueta and Mason Mount missed penalties as the Reds repeated their Carabao Cup shootout joy over the same opponents, this time with a 6-5 success following a goalless 120 minutes.
    And Liverpool boss Klopp ‘couldn’t be prouder’ after his ‘mentality monsters’ won an ‘incredible, tense’ final.
    Counterpart Tuchel claimed he was sure Chelsea would win – ‘until the final minute’.
    So it’s two down, two to go, in Liverpool’s Quadruple hunt.
    And skipper Jordan Henderson believes today’s triumph shows ‘attitude, personalities and incredible talent’ are their driving force.
    ‘Sad’ Tuchel felt sure Chelsea would win
    Thomas Tuchel claims he was sure Chelsea would win the FA Cup final – right up to Liverpool’s final shootout penalty.
    The Blues boss praised his ‘excellent’ side for shutting out ‘maybe the most dangerous attacking team in the world’ as the Reds triumphed 6-5 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes.
    And he revealed just how confident he was that they would come out on top – after Liverpool beat them the same way in February’s Carabao Cup final.
    He told the Wembley press conference: “No regrets. I’m proud of the team.
    “We were sure we could make life for Liverpool difficult  – and we did again.
    “We struggled in the first 15 minutes then we were excellent and played a goalless draw against maybe the most dangerous attacking team in the world.
    “I was sure before the match and I was sure during the game we would win.
    “I was sure momentum was on our side and I was sure until the very last minute and unfortunately I was not right.”
    Mason’s lost all his six Wembley finals
    Mason Mount missed a crucial penalty in Chelsea’s FA Cup final defeat to Liverpool, condemning himself to SIX consecutive Wembley final defeats.
    The Blues academy product stepped up and missed his sudden death spot-kick in the penalty shootout, before Liverpool ace Konstantinos Tsimikas wrapped the game up.
    It means the England and Chelsea ace has now lost SIX consecutive finals at Wembley in his professional career.
    Mount’s bad luck at the national team’s stadium started back in 2019 during his loan spell at Derby.
    The 23-year-old was playing under Frank Lampard at the time but lost to Aston Villa in the Championship play-off final. He then followed it up with back-to-back FA Cup defeats in 2020 and 2021.
    Mount then suffered heartbreak with England, who were penalties away from their first major trophy since 1966, but they were toppled by Italy.
    And this season, back-to-back losses to Liverpool on penalties in both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup added more insult to injury for the Chelsea fan. Mount’s bad luck is leading to some fans believing the midfielder is “cursed”. One fan said on Twitter: “Mason Mount is really cursed at Wembley.”
    Trolls target ‘bottle job’ Mason
    Mason Mount has been branded a “bottle job” by brutal trolls online after his FA Cup final penalty miss, writes TOM SHEEN.
    The Chelsea star played the full 120 minutes as his side battled with Liverpool under the Wembley arch.
    Like in February’s League Cup final, the two sides couldn’t be separated – with neither able to score in two hours of play.

    The match went to penalties, with Mount not stepping up until the Blues’ seventh spot kick – after forgotten man Ross Barkley.
    Cesar Azpilicueta had already missed from 12 yards, only to be bailed out by Edouard Mendy’s save from Sadio Mane.
    Mount wouldn’t be so lucky, with Kostas Tsimikas tucking away the following penalty to seal a 6-5 shoot-out win for the Reds.
    Social media was subsequently full of trolls criticising Mount for failing to score. One wrote: “Mason Mount’s a bottle job pass it on.”
    Another asked: “Mason Mount the biggest bottle job in football?”
    Pointing out his record, one fan wrote: “Mason Mount is the biggest bottle job ever 6 finals now init?” Another pointed out: “When it’s Mount he’s cursed but when it’s Kane he’s a serial bottler.”
    A kinder fan pointed out: “He’s rather a blessed one @masonmount_10. How many people get such finals to play. His time will come. Even Klopp has started winning trophies.”
    Klopp hails his ‘outstanding mentality monsters’
    Boss Jurgen Klopp praised Liverpool’s nerves of steel as they completed a domestic shootout double over Chelsea.
    Klopp told the BBC: “Outstanding, it was an incredible, intense game against Chelsea – they would have deserved it [the win] exactly the same way, like in the Carabao Cup – that’s how small the margins are.
    “I couldn’t be more proud of my boys, the shift they put in, how hard they fought, early changes.
    “All of these things, missing good chances, overcoming good moments from Chelsea, then having really good moments ourselves.
    “Then in the penalty shootout, it was nerve-racking, my nails are gone but I really feel for Chelsea – for the second time, 120 minutes and you get nothing, that’s too hard. But for us I’m pretty happy.
    “We are mentality monsters but there were mentality monsters in blue as well – it was one penalty.
    “Chelsea played outstanding but in the end there must be one winner and that was us today.”
    Blues lack killer Tuch
    Chelsea suffered shootout heartbreak at the hands of Liverpool for the second time this season, writes JACK ROSSER.
    Jurgen Klopp’s side are still on for a remarkable quadruple after both Cesar Azpilicueta and Mason Mount failed from the spot at Wembley, handing the Reds a first FA Cup under the German.

    Chelsea had to ride their luck at times – recovering after a terrible start in which Luis Diaz could have scored twice.
    But they had plenty of chances themselves and were too wasteful when it really mattered.
    American Christian Pulisic sent good chances agonisingly wide in either half while he should have played a better ball for Marcos Alonso in the first half.
    Alonso was racing through but the pass forced him into a heavy touch, allowing Alisson to save.
    Pulisic was Chelsea’s most dangerous player – but fell short when it mattered most.
    Boss Thomas Tuchel must shoulder some blame too. With Liverpool leaving acres of space thanks to their high line, Pulisic had showed that pace could hurt them.
    Despite that, Tuchel decided to keep a confident Timo Werner on the bench throughout, instead turning to Hakim Ziyech and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to bolster the forward line.
    It is desperately cruel to lose on penalties again, especially with one Chelsea legend, Azpilicueta, and another in the making, Mount, being the ones to let the Blues down.
    Tuchel’s true task at Chelsea is to ensure they mix it with Liverpool and Manchester City at the top of the table next season. After four draws from four games against Liverpool this season Chelsea will feel close to doing that. To make that next step, they need a killer touch at the crucial times.
    READ THE FULL VERDICT HERE
    Chelsea sub ratings
    N’Golo Kante (for Kovacic, 66) – 7
    Added plenty of energy and pace to the Chelsea midfield.
    Covered well at the back and constantly looked to drive forward on the ball from deep.
    Hakim Ziyech (for Lukaku, 85) – 6
    Took a superb penalty but struggled to make a real impact during normal and extra time.
    Ruben Loftus-Cheek (for Pulisic, 106) – 6
    Showed his versatility once more by coming on at centre-forward – though he was hooked after only 14 minutes on the pitch.
    Cesar Azpilicueta (for Chalobah, 106) – 6
    Added some experience to the back line to ensure Liverpool couldn’t find a late winner during extra time but clattered his penalty against the post.
    Ross Barkley (for Loftus-Cheek, 120) – 7
    Sent on to take a spot kick in his first appearance since January 8 and hammered it home past Alisson.
    Subs not used: Kepa, Werner, Saul, Sarr
    More ratings after Blues’ final agony
    MASON MOUNT – 7
    With tired legs all around him, the Cobham graduate never stopped running and working – desperately unlucky to be the one whose penalty cost Chelsea the Cup.
    CHRISTIAN PULISIC – 6
    The American was a constant danger throughout but proved very wasteful with a number of efforts sent narrowly wide.
    ROMELU LUKAKU – 5
    A frustrating afternoon with little service for the striker, but he offered far too little himself.
    Sent his best chance, a first time effort under pressure from Virgil van Dijk, well over the bar.
    More Chelsea ratings
    JORGINHO – 6
    Took a Salah shot straight to the face after just five minutes and gave good protection to the back line throughout.
    Kept a cool head following the poor start and gave Chelsea some composure as they got back into the game.
    MATEO KOVACIC – 7
    Passed fit to play after his injury at Leeds. Dragged Chelsea back into the game after a terrible start and impressed before tiring and being replaced just after the hour mark.
    MARCOS ALONSO – 8
    Kept Salah quiet before the Egyptian was forced off and dovetailed superbly with Christian Pulisic going forwards.
    Took a very composed penalty to get things going.
    The Spaniard got in behind Trent Alexander-Arnold time and again and caused plenty of problems.
    How Chelsea rated
    Jack Rosser gives his verdict on the unlucky Blues after Liverpool won the FA Cup final 6-5 after a goalless draw at Wembley.
    EDOUARD MENDY – 6
    Made some important stops in normal time and saved Sadio Mane’s spot kick, but it wasn’t enough.
    TREVOH CHALOBAH – 6
    Drew the shortest of straws in having to deal with Diaz at full-pelt all afternoon.
    Just about managed to hang in there and cleared an effort of his off the line inside the first ten minutes.
    THIAGO SILVA – 6
    Battled back from an early knock with a typically intelligent performance.
    Kept Sadio Mane quiet for the most part and did his best to help Chalobah fend off Diaz.
    ANTONIO RUDIGER – 7
    How Chelsea will miss the German.
    The most composed of the back three and ensured there was not much to be seen from either Salah or Diogo Jota down his side.
    REECE JAMES – 7
    Struggled early on but dropped in a dealt with Diaz well after the frantic start.
    Got forward well after the break and delivered some wicked crosses for his teammates in the middle – though none could convert them.
    Cool as ice over his penalty.
    Bayern in for Chelsea and Utd ‘target’ Dembele
    Bayern Munich reportedly added Ousmane Dembele to their list of summer transfer targets.
    The France winger, 24, is set to leave Barcelona on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer.

    Some of Europe’s biggest clubs have been linked with a potential swoop for the star, including PSG, Manchester United and Chelsea.
    The Blues were planning to go all-out to sign the winger in the coming months, however, they now face some serious competition from Bayern Munich.
    According to Sky Sports, the German giants are very interested in signing Dembele and have already made contact with his representatives.
    Julian Nagelsmann is eager to sign a new forward who has the ability to make a difference in attack.
    Milner consoles Mount
    James Milner showed his class as he consoled Mason Mount after he missed Chelsea’s final penalty in Liverpool’s FA Cup final shootout win.
    Milner spent time to put his arm round Mount, who was on his knees, after Kostas Tsimikas stroked home Liverpool’s next kick to clinch a 6-5 triumph following a goalless draw.
    Mason Mount shows the pain of his shootout missCredit: Getty
    Kostas Tsimikas rolls home the decisive shootout kickCredit: Getty
    Sub Kostas Tsimikas leads Liverpool’s victory celebrationsCredit: AP

    Deja Blues – Liverpool beat Chelsea in shootout AGAIN
    The Blues suffered FA Cup shootout agony against Liverpool after the same fate in the Carabao Cup showpiece at Wembley.
    Cesar Azpilicueta and Mason Mount had penalties well saved by Alisson.
    And overall the Reds merited their success.
    Chelsea matched them for golden chances but the longest, strongest spells came from Jurgen Klopp’s Quadruple hunters.
    Liverpool win shootout 6-5
    Alisson brilliantly saved from Mason Mount’s spot-kick to the keeper’s left.
    Liverpool sub Kostas Tsimikas then rolled in the winner – sending Mendy the wrong way.
    Sudden death: Chelsea 5 Liverpool 5
    Hakim Ziyech smashed a fierce penalty home to put Chelsea 5-4 up.
    Diogo Jota tucked home a high spot-kick to level it up for Liverpool.
    Sudden death penalties on
    It’s level again! Chelsea 4 Liverpool 4
    Jorginho sent Alisson the wrong way to make it 4-4 – leaving Sadio Mane with the final penalty of the regulation ten to win it for Liverpool.
    But his low kick to Mendy’s right was too close to the keeper, who saved well.
    After 8 kicks: Shootout score: Chelsea 3 Liverpool 4
    Sub Ross Barkley smashed the Blues level at 3-3 but Trent Alexander-Arnold sent Mendy the wrong way to restore Liverpool’s advantage.
    Shootout score: Chelsea 2 Liverpool 3
    The Reds have netted all three of their kicks – Mendy getting fingertips to two of them.
    Shoootut score: Chelsea 1 Liverpool 2
    Azpilicueta hit the post with Chelsea’s second penalty – leaving Liverpool ahead after two kicks each.
    Marcos Alonso scores the opening shootout penalty: 1-0.
    Chelsea to shoot in front of their own fans
    Chelsea 0 Liverpool 0: The penalty shootout is under way.
    Follow the shootout blow by blow with our live blog HERE.
    Penalty shootout needed again
    Chelsea 0 Liverpool 0: It’s a repeat of the Carabao Cup final in needing a shootout to decide the FA Cup.
    It’s amazing how it ended goalless, although extra time was quieter, both sides looking tired.
    Follow the shootout blow by blow with our live blog HERE.
    Liverpool hold slight edge
    Chelsea 0 Liverpool 0: In the closing stages of extra time, Liverpool are pushing Chelsea back with plenty of possession.
    Follow all the action with our live blog HERE.
    Load more entries… More

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    Chelsea transfer blow as Bayern Munich ‘make contact with Ousmane Dembele’ for summer transfer from Barcelona

    BAYERN MUNICH have reportedly added Ousmane Dembele to their list of summer transfer targets.Dembele, 24, is set to leave Barcelona on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer.
    Bayern Munich have added Dembele to their list of transfer targetsCredit: Getty
    Some of Europe’s biggest clubs have been linked with a potential swoop for the star, including PSG and Chelsea.
    The Blues were planning to go all-out to sign the winger in the coming months, however, they now face some serious competition from Bayern Munich.
    According to Sky Sports, the German giants are very interested in signing Dembele and have already made contact with his representatives.
    Julian Nagelsmann is eager to sign a new forward who has the ability to make a difference in attack.
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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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.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;}Blues ‘AGREE Perisic deal’, Lukaku blasts his OWN agent
    And with the imminent departure of Robert Lewandowski, reinforcements will be crucial.
    This weekend, Bayern Munich’s sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic revealed that the 33-year-old striker wants to leave this summer.
    He told Sky Germany: “I spoke with Lewa.
    “In that discussion he informed me that he does not want to accept our offer to extend the contract and that he would like to leave the club.
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    “He said he wants to do something else. But our position has not changed.
    “The fact is he has a contract to June 30, 2023.”
    While Bayern look to prioritise Dembele as an attacking replacement, Barcelona are now desperately scrambling to offer him a new deal.
    Club chiefs want him to stay, but they have also told him to lower his demands.
    Dembele is currently the fourth most expensive player in the world.
    Barca paid £135.5m to sign him from Borussia Dortmund in 2017, but he failed to live up to expectations. More

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    Bayern Munich ‘made 11th-hour bid to land Antonio Rudiger transfer but Chelsea star had already signed Real Madrid deal’

    BAYERN MUNICH allegedly failed with an 11th hour transfer move for Antonio Rudiger.The 29-year-old German is out of contract at Chelsea in the summer.
    Bayern Munich failed with a late move for Antonio RudigerCredit: Rex
    Spanish giants Real Madrid have secured his services after snapping up the free transfer on a four-year deal.
    However, SportBild’s Christian Falk has claimed that Bayern contacted Rudiger over a potential deal.
    But the German giants had acted too late, with the centre-half having already almost agreed terms with the LaLiga side.
    This report states that Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic got in touch with the player’s agent after the Champions League exit to Villarreal.
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    But the Bundesliga outfit would not meet Rudiger’s wage demands.
    And he was nearly close to an agreement with Madrid.
    Rudiger has been imperious for Chelsea over the past 12 months since the arrival of manager Thomas Tuchel.
    He first joined Chelsea from Roma in 2017 but it is over the last two seasons where he has truly shown his class.
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    He helped the Blues win the Champions League last year and was hailed as one of their player’s of the season.
    But Tuchel recently confirmed the sanctions imposed on Chelsea and outgoing owner Roman Abramovich have meant they were unable to tie Rudiger down to a new deal.
    Now the star is hoping to finish his Blues career by winning the FA Cup. More