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    Neymar and Steven Gerrard feature in amazing Chelsea XI almost signed by the Blues before transfers fell apart

    WHEN Roman Abramovich arrived in 2003, Chelsea attracted the biggest names in the game.The Russian poured millions into his beloved Blues, particularly in his earlier years with the club, before he was forced into selling the club when he was hit by government sanctions.
    Former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich forked out for a host of stars after buying Chelsea in 2003Credit: AFP
    Chelsea could have signed a whole host of superstars
    He quickly set his stall out in his first few seasons at the helm by bringing the likes of Arjen Robben, Claude Makelele and Didier Drogba to West London.
    That’s not to mention highly-rated young Porto coach Jose Mourinho.
    Chelsea have hardly struggled for trophies in the following years, scooping five league titles, five FA Cups and two Champions League triumphs. And it is astonishing to think that they could have had even more.
    Yes, the Blues were within touching distance of signing a whole host of other superstars.
    And here is an XI of those that could have brought yet more silverware to the already overflowing Stamford Bridge trophy cabinet:
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}LATEST FOOTBALL NEWS.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    GK – Alisson Becker
    The Brazilian stopper briefly became the most expensive goalkeeper in history when he signed for Liverpool in July 2018 for £66.8million, but things could have been oh so different.
    In Thibaut Courtois, Chelsea thought that they had secured a long-term replacement to their legendary, Champions League winning goalkeeper Petr Cech.
    But that summer, the Blues became resigned to losing the lanky Belgian to Real Madrid, and Roma keeper Alisson shot to the top of their wishlist.
    As Brazil’s incumbent No1, coming off the back of an extremely impressive year with the Italians in which he helped his team to the Champions League semi-finals, Alisson was hot property.
    But despite Chelsea’s best efforts, he opted to move to Anfield instead, later explaining his decision to FourFourTwo magazine.
    He said: “I chose Liverpool for the same reasons I went to Roma when I first left Brazil—I thought this would be the best move for my career. Chelsea were changing their manager and not playing in the Champions League.
    “I’ve also always admired Liverpool’s history. This is a club with five European Cups in their trophy cabinet. I really wanted to be part of that history.”
    As it turned out, Alisson didn’t hold the title of world’s most expensive goalkeeper for very long, with Chelsea scrambling around the very next month to splash £71million on Kepa…
    Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk could have had a massive impact at Stamford BridgeCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    RB – Dani Alves
    Barcelona and Chelsea formed an intense rivalry after a number of heated Champions League battles between the pair throughout the 2000s and 2010s.
    And after joining the Catalan giants in the summer of 2008, Alves became a key cog in these matches, rampaging down the right flank in what has become trademark fashion down the years.
    The Brazilian won an astonishing 23 trophies during his first time at the Nou Camp, but again things could have been very different, had he gone to Stamford Bridge instead.
    More than a decade later, the now 38-year-old revealed that he had given a move to West London from Sevilla in 2007 the green light.
    He told Sky Sports: “I didn’t go to Chelsea because of the club, not because of me.
    “I thought it was done, that I was going there to work with [Mourinho]. I don’t know if he got different information, that I didn’t want to go or whatever, because since then our relationship hasn’t been so good, but it wasn’t my fault.
    “I was convinced that I was going to work with him and form part of his team.”
    CB – John Stones
    “Money can’t buy you Stones,” Everton supporters gleefully sang.
    It was August 2015, and having just won his third Premier League title, Mourinho was desperate to land the highly-rated 21-year-old defender from the Toffees, to bolster his ageing defence.
    Everton held firm over the confident centre-back, however, much to the increasingly moody Portuguese’s ire.
    With John Terry’s once imperious powers on the wane, and having seemingly lost the dressing room, Mourinho was sacked four months later – while it turned out money could in fact buy Stones the year after, just not Chelsea’s.
    The Yorkshireman joined Manchester City for £47.5m in 2016, and has won three Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola.
    On his reasons for ultimately joining City, he told Soccer AM: “Guardiola was 100 per cent a major factor, if not the main reason for me coming.
    “There’s a lot of factors when you’re thinking about moving clubs but in my eyes he’s the best manager in the world to work with.
    “To be given that opportunity to work with him, I couldn’t say no.”
    John Stones went on to sign for rivals Man City insteadCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    CB – Virgil van Dijk
    Of all the names on this teamsheet, Van Dijk’s may sting Chelsea fans the most.
    The Dutch defender was highly sought after during his time at Southampton, but it was Liverpool, rather than Chelsea that opted to splash what had seemed an extraordinary £75m to prise him away from St Mary’s.
    But he has gone on to be worth every penny.
    Helping Liverpool to Champions League glory, and a key cog in their title win in 19-20, van Dijk’s incredible performances even saw him come second in the 2019 Ballon d’Or.
    Then Chelsea boss Antonio Conte had been desperate to land him, but revealed his side were priced out of the move.
    The surly Italian huffed back in 2018: “This is football. This is life. For sure he was our target, but as you know this is football.
    “We can have a lot of targets, but you must be able to reach those targets. The transfer market is not simple for any club.”
    LB – Roberto Carlos
    Legendary left-back Roberto Carlos was a key figure in Real Madrid’s ‘Galacticos’ side of the early noughties, wowing fans with his astonishing left foot.
    His 11 years at the Bernabeu came to an end in 2007, when he surprisingly moved to Turkey – signing for Istanbul giants Fenerbahce.
    But the Brazilian revealed a decade on that he had come close to joining Chelsea instead.
    The Blues had arguably the best left-back of his generation in Ashley Cole, but few would have said no to a 34-year-old Carlos as back-up – even just to take free-kicks.
    The man himself told Sky Sports: “I spoke to Roman Abramovich about it. We had a meeting in Paris but it didn’t happen due to a few small factors.”
    Carlos claimed to have had a meeting with Roman AbramovichCredit: Reuters
    CM – Steven Gerrard
    In July 2005, just weeks after lifting the Champions League trophy with the club he had played for since the age of eight, Steven Gerrard shocked the world by handing in a transfer request.
    He wanted to join up with Mourinho at Chelsea.
    The then Liverpool captain and now Aston Villa manager had grown tired of his contract stand-off with Anfield chiefs, and when the Blues made a £32m bid, Gerrard’s head was well and truly turned.
    Mourinho was a huge fan of the player, and perhaps was the man to solve the infamous Gerrard-Frank Lampard England dilemma – particularly with Claude Makelele available to field them with in a midfield trio.
    But the move failed to materialise and within a matter of days the darling of the Kop had signed a bumper new £100k-a-week contract.
    All was forgiven, all was forgotten, and Gerrard played another ten seasons at Anfield.
    But having never won a Premier League title, you could forgive the 41-year-old for occasionally wistfully looking back and wondering what might have been…
    Steven Gerrard nearly joined up with England team-mate Lampard at ChelseaCredit: Getty – Contributor
    CM – Paul Pogba
    Paul Pogba has divided football fans since his then world-record £89m return to Manchester United in 2016.
    But what few can dispute is the Frenchman’s outrageous talent when fit and on his game.
    His relationship with Mourinho famously broke down at Old Trafford, but that does not mean that the Special One was never a fan of his.
    In fact, in the same summer that Chelsea had courted Stones, having won the league in 2015, Mourinho wanted Pogba to spearhead the Blues’ title defence the following year.
    But his agent Mino Raiola and Juventus blocked the transfer after agreeing the Frenchman would stay put in order to try and win the Champions League instead.
    The late Raiola said: “Paul could have left [Juventus] last year because Mourinho – then at Chelsea – really wanted him.
    “But Juventus and I had an agreement: win the league title and the Champions League, then he can go.”
    Paul Pogba nearly joined up with Mourinho at Chelsea in 2015Credit: Alamy
    RW – Robinho
    The disgraced former star didn’t live up to expectations on the pitch.
    A once outrageously talented trickster known for dazzling defenders with his trademark stepovers in the white of Madrid, however, the Brazilian was courted by his compatriot Luiz Felipe Scolari in 2008.
    It had seemed a foregone conclusion that he would end up at Stamford Bridge… but then he didn’t.
    He instead shocked the world, by signing for Manchester City in Deadline Day’s dying embers.
    Back in 2018, he lifted the lid on the surprise transfer, telling FourFourTwo: “I wanted to go to Chelsea.
    “Scolari told me that I could make the difference for him in the team.
    “However, Real Madrid ended up badly with them, they didn’t like the way that Chelsea sold shirts with my name on them before the deal was done.
    “I am sure it was this that led to the negotiations to fail and it was a case of pride for Real Madrid.
    “They were also reluctant to let me move to a club that was playing in the Champions League that season. Chelsea were, but City weren’t.”
    CAM – Ronaldinho
    The Brazilian hit headlines last year for surprising reasons, but here we’re going to focus on his football.
    For in the mid-2000s, Ronaldinho felt untouchable.
    He was the planet’s most exciting player, dazzling defenders with his outrageous tricks, and winning fans around the globe with the immense swagger and charm that he played with
    It is well-known that he nearly signed for Manchester United in 2003, before instead leaving Paris Saint-Germain for Barcelona.
    But it is lesser known that Chelsea were also in for him.
    The man himself later revealed: “Chelsea tried to take me there once, and some other teams were interested in signing me, too.
    “The league there is so fast and so intense all of the time – it’s great to watch and not boring at all.
    “I don’t tend to watch all 90 minutes of Premier League games, but I will see more of the highlights and the goals in the Premier League than I see of other leagues around the world.”
    Ronaldinho and Neymar both could have ended up at Stamford BridgeCredit: AFP or licensors
    LW – Neymar
    Another major star that just got away from the Blues.
    The year was 2010 and an 18-year-old sensation by the name of Neymar was leaving jaws on the floor with his array of tricks and flicks while wearing the colours of Santos in his native Brazil.
    West Ham had surprisingly been the first Premier League side to dip their toe into the market for the wonderkid (now that would have been something..!), but had been rejected out of hand.
    Champions Chelsea were to be next, even tabling a £27m bid for the player.
    Like the Hammers, they were turned down, but kept trying, even reportedly setting up secret meetings with the player’s father in order to convince him that his son’s future lay in West London.
    The deal failed to materialise, however, with Santos amazingly being able to keep him for another three years before finally selling him to Barcelona.
    After much success in Spain, PSG made him the world’s most expensive player in 2017 when they splashed out £200m for his services.
    Wazza became Man Utd’s all-time leading goalscorer in 2017Credit: Reuters
    ST – Wayne Rooney
    Wayne Rooney, possibly the most gifted English footballer of his generation, became Manchester United’s all-time leading goalscorer after netting a free-kick against Stoke in January 2017.
    But four years prior to that, it looked as if the explosive striker wanted to leave Old Trafford for good.
    The fiery character had his run-ins with Sir Alex Ferguson, but it was when his former Everton boss David Moyes arrived in the summer of 2013, that Chelsea went all out to sign him.
    Rooney later denied handing in a transfer request in Sir Alex’s final season, but admitted considering his options.
    He told the BBC: “I went in to see him [Ferguson] and just said if you’re not going to play me it might be better if I moved on – then all of a sudden it’s all over the press I put in a transfer request, which I never did.”
    That summer, Mourinho, having just returned to Stamford Bridge, boldly claimed that Rooney was his ‘only transfer target’.
    Chelsea had a flurry of bids rejected, and Rooney ultimately stayed at Old Trafford. More

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    Lukaku HITS OUT at comments, Perisic AGREES terms with Blues as they consider swoop for Inter ace – FA Cup final latest

    ROMELU LUKAKU seems to have HIT OUT at his agents comments on his Instagram story.The Belgian’s representative mentioned that he intends to discuss Lukaku’s future with the new owners.
    But the Chelsea forward stated that: “Never ever will I let someone speak for me…”
    Meanwhile, the Blues are reportedly considering a swoop for Croatian international ace Ivan Perisic this summer.
    And keep reading for all things FA Cup as we countdown the hours until kick-off.
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    Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the takeover in our live blog…
    Chelsea’s Dembele hunt takes turn
    Chelsea are in danger of missing out on Ousmane Dembele.
    That’s because Barcelona have reportedly scheduled a meeting with his agent next week.
    The French winger is out of contract this summer and is a target for Thomas Tuchel, who coached him at Borussia Dortmund.
    But Xavi Hernandez remains keen on keeping Dembele after previous talks broke down.
    And Barcelona could be willing to meet his mammoth wage demands on a long-term basis.
    Cahill hails captain Azpi’s impact
    Gary Cahill believes Chelsea would win the title every year if they were able to field 11 Cesar Azpilicueta’s.
    He exclusively told SunSport: “You don’t last as long as he has at Chelsea without being a fantastic player.
    “But also it takes more than that. It takes a mentality, a work-rate, a thick skin.
    “To have one of those things is not good enough. He has them all.
    “If you had 11 of him, Chelsea would win the league every year.”

    Chelsea ready to land Kounde
    Chelsea are finally ready to wrap up a deal for long-term target Jules Kounde.
    Fabrizio Romano said: “One of the names again will be Jules Kounde from Sevilla.
    “He has a release clause for €80million but from Sevilla they’re really tough in the negotiations. So, it’s not going to be an easy one.
    “They wanted him for Chelsea, last summer, and it was a complicated negotiation. But I’m told he’s still a name in the list for Chelsea.”
    Palace hopeful of Gallagher deal
    Crystal Palace will press Chelsea into making Conor Gallagher’s loan permanent this summer.
    TalkSport claim Eagles chiefs have made signing Gallagher their top priority after he was crowned the club’s Player of the Year.
    The England midfielder has certainly enjoyed his temporary spell at Selhurst Park.
    But it’s believed the player wants to push for a first-team spot at Chelsea, with Thomas Tuchel equally keen on integrating him in pre-season.
    Kovacic set for FA Cup
    Mateo Kovacic is in line to play for Chelsea in tomorrow’s FA Cup final against Liverpool.
    Thomas Tuchel feared his star midfielder was out after he was brutally tackled by Leeds’ Dan James.
    Kovacic was forced off the field with his injury, which occurred on a troublesome ankle.
    But the Croatian has made a miracle recovery and could even start at Wembley.
    Chelsea close to Perisic swoop
    Chelsea are reportedly on the verge of signing Inter Milan star Ivan Perisic
    Sport Mediaset claims terms have been agreed over a stunning free transfer this summer.
    Perisic has rejected a new offer from Inter following their Italian Cup win over Juventus.
    And he is set to arrive at Stamford Bridge as a replacement for left wing-back Marcos Alonso, who wants to join Barcelona.
    Ruben’s lofty ambitions this summer
    Ruben Loftus-Cheek is hoping to leave Chelsea for Lazio.
    Corriere dello Sport claims the midfielder wants a reunion with Maurizio Sarri in Rome.
    The pair enjoyed their brief time working together at Stamford Bridge.
    And with Chelsea planning on a midfield rebuild this summer, they could sanction the transfer for the right fee.
    Teams with most Prem titles
    Chelsea have won the Premier League title an impressive five times.
    Jose Mourinho led them to three, with Carlo Ancelotti and Antonio Conte scooping the others.
    But Chelsea’s last league triumph came in 2016.
    Will the new Todd Boehly consortium back Thomas Tuchel in the window and build a new title-winning side?

    Tuchel on a potential penalty shoot-out
    Chelsea have already suffered penalties heartbreak this season, as they lost 11-10 to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on pens.
    Kepa Arrizabalaga was subbed on especially for the shoot-out but it didn’t work as he missed the decisive penalty.
    Asked about whether he’d do it again, Tuchel said: “I will not tell you (if Kepa is brought on). I have an opinion about it, but I will not tell you.”
    On whether his side have been practicing for a potential shoot-out, the Chelsea boss said: “Practising, I’m a bit torn in between if you can practise it and how much to practise it.
    “My players shoot a lot of penalties during a season, I have to say – on an almost daily basis.”
    Tuchel on team selection: Havertz vs Lukaku
    Here is how Thomas Tuchel responded to the question of who starts up front in the FA Cup final – Kai Havertz or Romelu Lukaku?
    “We can play both, although they lacked a bit of the feeling of being a perfect fit together.
    “It’s very likely that it is one of the two, but we will not give the line-up today. Listen, Romelu has played lately and scored lately.
    “He did everything to stay on the pitch. (We will make) our final call in the morning.”
    Lukaku has his say
    Romelu Lukaku has now broken his silence on what his agent has said to the media earlier.
    He has put out this statement on Instagram.
    Is this him potentially firing shots at his agent?

    Tuchel on Lukaku and his agent
    The Chelsea manager has spoken once again on the Romelu Lukaku scandal.
    The German has said regarding the rumours his agent wants a meeting with the Chelsea hierarchy: “I think if he plans to talk with the owner, maybe it is not his plan to talk with me. It’s fair enough. Let’s see if he gets a meeting. It is his right. We will talk to anybody.
    “We will evaluate any situation of any player, including Romelu. We will see what is going to happen and what the plans are.”
    When asked about if he has concerns about the media noise regarding Lukaku ahead of such a big game, Tuchel responded: “I was only made aware of it five or ten minutes ago, actually. It’s what sometimes happens in football.
    “The attention is so high that sometimes it attracts situations that you don’t want to have before big matches. It’s the way it is.
    “For me, it is not a distraction and hopefully, for everybody that works on the team and the team itself, it is not.”
    Credit: Rex
    Tuchel on Kovacic’s fitness
    Mateo Kovacic sustained an injury versus Leeds earlier this week.
    Thomas Tuchel has provided an update on his fitness.
    He said, “It’s pretty surprising to be in the situation where we can try, and Mateo wants to try it – and the medical department gave the green light to try it.
    “The ‘advantage’ is the ligament is torn already from the last incident (in the FA Cup semi-final), so there is no new injury, just heavy pain. His ankle was heavily swollen.
    “We are hoping that maybe time is enough for him to make it. We will try in two-and-a-half hours in training, and we will know more about it.”
    Tuchel Press Conference
    Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has spoken to the media ahead of Chelsea’s FA Cup final versus Liverpool.
    On the match-up, he said: “It started with last season’s win at Anfield. Then very early in this season, with a draw at Anfield.
    “Then a draw at Stamford Bridge and a draw over 120 minutes and twenty-something penalties at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final.
    “So very close, very intense matches. We always need our very highest level to compete, but we found it in the matches.
    “We want to be spot on.”
    Chelsea switch attention to Sangare due to Rice fee
    West Ham are demanding a huge bid of £150million for them to consider selling Declan Rice according to the Mirror.
    As a result, Chelsea believe Ibrahim Sangare would be better value for money.
    The Ivorian could be available for just £30million this summer after a standout season for PSV this campaign.
    How Chelsea can upset Liverpool
    We are looking forward to tomorrow’s FA Cup final between Chelsea and Liverpool.
    With Fabinho out injured for Jurgen Klopp’s side, how can the Blues exploit that potential weakness?
    Linked here is The Sun’s tactical preview of the big game.
    Perisic to Chelsea?
    Croatian international Ivan Perisic could be on his way to Chelsea.
    The Inter Milan player is capable of playing anywhere on the left-hand side, as a winger or wing-back.
    This versatility could tempt Thomas Tuchel into signing him especially with Marcos Alonso potentially departing the club.

    Werner nearly went to Liverpool
    Chelsea striker Timo Werner has revealed he was close to joining Liverpool prior to joining the West London club.
    He said to the Mirror: “Of course Liverpool were also in my thoughts and were a big possibility for me.
    “But at the end I decided for Chelsea and I won the Champions League title last year so it was not the worst decision.”
    Mount nominated for Young Player of the Season
    Mason Mount has been nominated for the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season award.
    The 23-year-old has netted 11 goals this campaign.
    He has been nominated alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold, Aaron Ramsdale, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden Tyrick Mitchell and Chelsea loanee Conor Gallagher.
    Broja to West Ham on loan?
    The Hammers hold an interest in Chelsea’s on loan star Armando Broja.
    However according to West Ham insider Claret and Hugh, they want to sign the 20-year-old on loan before any permanent outlay.
    While at Southampton, Broja has scored nine goals.
    There still remains a chance he stays at Stamford Bridge and fights for his place.
    Chelsea should sign Lewandowski says Johnson
    Glen Johnson believes Chelsea should make a move for Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski.
    The Pole is believed to be nearing a move away from the Bundesliga champions.
    The ex-full-back said, “He is a more realistic signing, but these top, world-class strikers are hard to find.
    “For his age and the possibility of the deal actually happening, I’d say Chelsea should sign Lewandowski.”
    Johnson claims James is better than Trent
    Glen Johnson continued to say that he thinks Reece James is better than Trent Alexander-Arnold.
    He sid: “It’s tough because I think they’re both fantastic. 
    “I think Trent is just about better on the ball and certainly has got a better delivery, but to be fair to Reece that sounds harsh because he’s fantastic as well.
    “I’d say Trent is better going forward and James is better defensively, but all round, I’d have to say Reece James is better.”
    Johnson says Mount his PL Player of the Year
    Former Chelsea defender Glen Johnson has said that Mason Mount is his Premier League Player of the Season.
    Despite the midfielder not being nominated for the official award, Johnson claims he should win it.
    He said to Lord Ping, “I wouldn’t say he’s gone under the radar because he’s been great, but everything Chelsea do well, Mason is involved.
    “Even though they’ve not hit the heights they are capable of this season, he’s always performed. 
    “He always works his socks off, he’s always involved in chances and goals so I’d probably go for Mason Mount.”
    Credit: Mark Cosgrove/News Images
    Silva wants staff to let his wife wear Chelsea kit
    Chelsea centre-back Thiago Silva has recalled when his wife was not allowed to wear the team’s shirt during the Carabao Cup final saying it left her upset.
    In the VIP area at Wembley you are not allowed to wear a football shirt.
    Silva told The Telegraph: “It wasn’t that she didn’t want to wear the shirt, it was because when she was getting her pass to get into the VIP zone, and they weren’t allowing family members to wear club colours.
    “She was upset because she wasn’t able to wear it.
    “She always wears my shirt, above all for finals. She wore it in the Champions League final and other competitions, the Club World Cup
    “So hopefully there will be no problem this time and no kind of rules on what they can and can’t wear.
    “It just shows passion and football is about passion. Hopefully she will be able to wear the shirt and it will bring us luck.’
    Desperate for Dest
    Chelsea are believed to be keen on Barcelona full-back Sergino Dest.
    The American right-back could be brought in a back-up for Reece James according to Sport.
    Dest could be part of the deal that sees Cesar Azpilicueta head to the Catalan giants.
    Load more entries… More

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    Chelsea given Kirby fitness boost as Hayes confirms meeting with US billionaire Boehly before FA Cup clash

    EMMA HAYES has been given a massive fitness boost with Fran Kirby available for inclusion in her FA Cup final squad on Sunday.And the Chelsea boss revealed she met incoming Blues owner Todd Boehly for lunch.
    Fran Kirby is available for Chelsea ahead of their FA Cup final game against Manchester CityCredit: Reuters
    US businessman Todd Boehly visited Emma Hayes at the Blues training groundCredit: PA
    Kirby, 28, who was last month ruled out of action for the foreseeable future, made a return to training for Chelsea this week.
    It is thought the forward could be available to play in the Women’s FA Cup duel between the Blues and Manchester City.
    Hayes, 44, said: “I don’t want to put any pressure on her because I love that kid and she’s been through a lot.
    “But she looked like she hadn’t even been away.
    .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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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;}HIGH NOTES .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;}What are the FA Cup final Abide With Me lyrics and how long has hymn been sung?
    “Fran looked that good in training and it was nice to see the smile on her face.
    “She’s participated in everything when, at the beginning of the week, we just said let’s see how it goes. Let’s do one bit of one session, day one.
    “And she came out of that and she was like, ‘it’s not enough’.
    “Then we did day two and I said, ‘Well, let’s use you as a neutral, you play half blocks of a game’.
    “She said, ‘I’m fine’. She’s been in training all week. I’m over the moon, to be honest.”
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    Chelsea and City could be set to play in front of the biggest crowd to ever attend a Women’s FA Cup final.
    More than 50,000 tickets have reportedly been sold ahead of the Wembley event.
    But with 60,000 fans at the FA Cup Youth final to watch Man United Under-18s defeat Nottingham Forest, Hayes believes a full house should be the target for the contest.
    The Kingsmeadow gaffer added: “We should fill it. That for me is always the ultimate goal.
    “But I remember sitting here in 2015 and driving that message.
    “And what I have understood over the years is you grow the game incrementally.
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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;}MOY MISERY .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;}Prem Manager of the Season nominations revealed with Moyes surprise omission
    “To go from 35,000 to 40,000, to 50,000, to 60,000, you just want to solidify that.”
    Chelsea’s duel with Gareth Taylor’s side comes two days after Hayes met with Boehly following the announcement of his plans to buy the Blues.
    The American billionaire has signed an agreement to purchase the club for £4.25billion in conjunction with a consortium.
    Hayes said: “He watched the girls train and I had a really lovely couple of hours with him.
    “He’s just a normal down to earth guy who is passionate about Chelsea. He’s ambitious as we are and it is a perfect fit.”
    Gareth Taylor’s players netted 17 goals in their final three WSL games this seasonCredit: Getty
    Sunday’s game will Man City attempt to seal a cup double triumph over their WSL rivals having beaten them in this Continental Tyres trophy final
    Taylor, 49, said: “There’s a really healthy respect between both clubs, between the players and between myself and Emma.
    “It doesn’t change things of course. We want to be the team that is beating them and we have another opportunity on Sunday.”
    Chelsea vs Manchester City in the Women’s FA Cup final can be watched live on BBC1 from 2:30 pm on Sunday 15 May. More

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    Chelsea ‘agree free transfer for Ivan Perisic with Croatian winger just needing to complete medical and sign contract’

    CHELSEA have agreed a free transfer for Ivan Perisic, according to reports.It is said the Croatian winger only needs to complete his medical and sign the contract before he will become a Blues player.
    Ivan Perisic looks on course to join Chelsea as a free agent in the summerCredit: Getty
    According to Sports Mediaset in Italy, the deal is all in place between the player and his new club and ready to be completed.
    Perisic, 33, becomes a free agent at the end of the season when his Inter Milan contract expires.
    He has failed to arrange an extension at the San Siro.
    The World Cup finalist reportedly wanted a new three-year deal worth just shy of £100,000 per week.
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15px;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-16djrfc{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1skzs3j{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}CHELSEA NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea open to DOUBLE Barca swap deal, Kovacic FIT for FA Cup final
    But Inter – who may also lose Lautaro Martinez – were only willing to offer a two-year deal at £65,000 per week.
    An angered Perisic hit out at club chiefs for failing to sort the new deal earlier.
    Speaking on Wednesday after scoring twice in extra-time to win Inter the Coppa Italia, his 47th club appearance of the season, he said: “I don’t know anything yet.
    “With important players, you don’t wait to the last minute. You ought to know that too.”
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    The former Manchester United target has chipped in with seven league goals and six assists for the title-chasing side.
    Chelsea must wait until the takeover is all done before they are able to sign any players – new or existing – down to fresh deals.
    Todd Boehly looks on course to become the new owner before the end of May after the paperwork was signed for his consortium’s £4.25billion successful bid.
    However, Chelsea have already lost Antonio Rudiger to Real Madrid while trio Andreas Christensen, Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso are expected to join Barcelona. More

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    ‘Not in my name’ – Romelu Lukaku blasts his OWN agent amid Chelsea transfer talk claims over his future

    ROMELU LUKAKU appeared to slam his own agent who claimed he will sit down for talks over his client’s future with the new Chelsea owners. The £97million striker, 29 today, has endured a rough first campaign since heading back to Stamford Bridge from Inter Milan.
    Romelu Lukaku has not had the best of times under Thomas Tuchel this seasonCredit: Getty
    Todd Boehly watched Lukaku score twice against Wolves and is set to take over as Blues ownerCredit: AP
    Links with a stunning transfer return to Serie A are already surfacing – with Inter and AC Milan circling ahead of possible swoops while Barcelona may also be keen.
    But with Todd Boehly’s £4.25billion consortium expected to complete a takeover of the Blues in the coming weeks, Federico Pastorello revealed he is keen to discuss all things Lukaku with the American billionaire.
    Asked about the Belgian heading back to Italy, Pastorello told La Repubblica: “He has the club and the fans in his heart, he has never hidden it, like his love for Anderlecht where he would like to end his career.
    “But we cannot think about negotiations.

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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;}CHELSEA NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea open to DOUBLE Barca swap deal, Kovacic FIT for FA Cup final
    “Chelsea are in takeover discussions, we do not know the new owners, let alone if we can open talks with Inter or AC Milan. We have to wait.”
    But Lukaku took to his social media soon after the quotes surfaced in Italy, seemingly swiping at his own rep.
    The striker wrote: “Never ever will I let someone speak for me.
    “I kept my mouth shut and focused on helping the team and end the season in the best way possible.
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    “So if someone is out there trying to say something about me and the club… not in my name.”
    And manager Thomas Tuchel was unsure what to make of the fiasco in his press conference.
    Asked about the Pastorello comments, the German boss said: “I think if he plans to talk with the owner, maybe it is not his plan to talk with me. It’s fair enough.
    “Let’s see if he gets a meeting! It is his right.
    “We will talk to anybody. We will evaluate any situation of any player, including Romelu.
    “We will see what is going to happen and what the plans are.
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    “I was only made aware of it five or ten minutes ago, actually. It’s what sometimes happens in football.
    “The attention is so high that sometimes it attracts situations that you don’t want to have before big matches. It’s the way it is.
    “For me, it is not a distraction and hopefully, for everybody that works on the team and the team itself, it is not.”
    Lukaku dropped a bombshell announcement in an interview in December, revealing he was “not happy” with life at Chelsea.
    He has managed just eight Premier League goals this term, ending a drought of ten matches and four months with his double against Wolves.
    FINAL FOCUS
    Another strike to seal a 3-0 win at Leeds in midweek means the ex-Manchester United man may have done enough to start the FA Cup final against Liverpool tomorrow.
    But Pastorello is well aware this season must be seen as a disappointment.
    The focus, for now, is winning Chelsea’s remaining matches, though.
    The agent added: “For the cost of the transfer, no one could have expected such a situation.
    “I do not discuss the tactical choices, but it is obvious that there was a problem.
    “The numbers, however, must be considered – he is still the team’s best scorer, with less playing time compared to his team-mates.
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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;}jo’s boy .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;}S Club 7’s Jo O’Meara shares snaps of rarely-seen son as he turns 14
    “The situation must be carefully assessed, now there is Champions League qualification to secure, there is the FA Cup final.
    “Romelu is focused on this, we have not talked about anything else.” More

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    Chelsea ‘turn transfer attention to £30m-rated Ibrahim Sangare from PSV after being put off by Declan Rice fee demands’

    CHELSEA have turned their attention to PSV Eindhoven star Ibrahim Sangare after being put off by West Ham’s asking price for Declan Rice, reports suggest.According to the Daily Mirror, the Blues are not willing to meet the Hammers’ staggering £150million demands to bring Rice back to Stamford Bridge in the summer.
    Chelsea are eyeing PSV Eindhoven star Ibrahim Sangare as Declan Rice’s alternativeCredit: Getty
    Chelsea have been put off by West Ham’s asking price for Declan RiceCredit: Getty
    Therefore, they have turned their attention to other attractive and cheaper options, such as Sangare who has impressed in the Eredivisie and Europa Conference League this season.
    The midfielder costs much less than Rice as PSV would be willing to let him go for £30m.
    The Ivory Coast international has previously confirmed that it would be a “dream” to move to the Premier League.
    Sangare recently told De Telegraaf: “I am a PSV player, and I am concentrating on the three games we have left this season. I don’t have my head in other things.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}CHELSEA NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea open to DOUBLE Barca swap deal, Kovacic FIT for FA Cup final
    “After that, I’ll go on holiday, and I’ll have time to talk about possible next projects. But until then I don’t want to worry about that.
    “Playing in the Premier League is not only a dream of mine but a dream of every footballer. That is the biggest and most important league in the world.”
    Chelsea remain sanctioned and that means they can’t negotiate any player contracts until departing owner Roman Abramovich officially sells the club.
    Todd Boehly’s consortium is close to taking over as they await clearance from the Premier League and the UK Government.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    When that gets sorted then the West Londoners will be looking to make several changes to the squad, including additions in midfield.
    Manager Thomas Tuchel is facing the prospect of losing either N’Golo Kante or Jorginho as their contracts expire next year. More

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    Chelsea transfer blow as Barcelona boss Xavi praises ‘difference-maker’ Ousmane Dembele amid contract stand-off

    CHELSEA’S hopes of signing Ousmane Dembele appear to have suffered a blow after he was hailed as a “difference-maker” by Barcelona boss Xavi.The 24-year-old has been free to speak to overseas clubs since January 1 with his contract set to expire in June.
    Chelsea target Ousmane Dembele has been hailed by his Barcelona bossCredit: AFP
    He cost Barcelona a mega £138 million from Borussia Dortmund back in 2017 but his time at the Nou Camp has been widely-viewed as a flop.
    President Joan Laporta slammed Dembele for turning down a deadline day offer from England.
    The Frenchman was heavily linked with a switch to the Premier League before the January window closed.
    Tottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United were all mentioned as possible destinations, while Paris Saint-Germain were also keen.
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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;}DON-ERL KEBAB .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;}Haaland indulges in KEBAB PIZZAS and sweet & sour chicken despite strict diet
    No move materialised, however, leaving Dembele to remain at Barcelona for the final five months of his contract.
    He was then booed by his own supporters at the Nou Camp after that – however he has begun to produce some impressive displays over recent weeks.
    That has sparked Chelsea’s interest again, however recent reports state that the star could stay at the Catalan giants after accepting a pay cut instead of joining heading to Stamford Bridge.
    Dembele did want a new contract to be worth £67million but in a change of heart he may lower his wage demands.
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    A meeting will allegedly take place in the coming days between Dembele’s agent and Barca representatives as they aim to agree a deal.
    And now Xavi has hinted that the attacker will be staying as he hailed his recent displays following his star performance in the victory over Celta Vigo on Tuesday.
    Dembele has only scored twice this term in 31 appearances for the LaLiga outfit, but Xavi is more concerned about his overall play rather than personal stats as he lavished praise on his ace.
    He said: “Ousmane Dembele is making the difference for us – and it’s not just about his goals.” More

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    Chelsea ‘open to shock Barcelona swap transfer with Sergino Dest and Neto to Blues in return for Alonso and Azpilicueta’

    CHELSEA are reportedly open to a swap deal which would see Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso transfer to Barcelona.In exchange, Sergino Dest and Neto could move to Stamford Bridge.
    Azpilicueta and Alonso could both move to BarcelonaCredit: Reuters
    The Catalan giants have already agreed a five-year deal with Blues centre back Andreas Christensen.
    But they are now set to raid Chelsea for two more defenders.
    The Blues are currently limited in terms of player negotiations due to the sanctions placed on the club by the UK Government.
    However, they will be allowed to complete deals when the takeover bid for the club is officially confirmed and accepted.
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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;}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;}Rudiger’s Real Madrid move done, Kounde keen on Blues move
    According to Spanish outlet Sport.es, the West London club want to sign Dest and Neto in exchange for Azpilicueta and Alonso.
    The two Blues are both said to be keen on a move to the Nou Camp.
    The club have reportedly agreed a deal with Azpilicueta which would see him earn around £11million-per-season.
    Meanwhile, Xavi also wants bring in Alonso.
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    Nine players are expected to leave Barcelona this summer, including Dest and Neto.
    Both are currently surplus to requirements, so the club will likely be open to a move.
    Frenkie de Jong and Memphis Depay are also on the list of potential departures.
    Dest could leave the club to make way for the Chelsea duoCredit: Getty
    Neto is also expected to leaveCredit: Alamy More