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    Chelsea ‘confident of Kounde deal’, Blues in Antony transfer talks, Rudiger latest – takeover updates

    ANTONIO RUDIGER is set to join Real Madrid this summer.The German international is out of contract and Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that he will leave the club.
    And Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of a replacement, with the Blues scouting looking at Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.
    Chelsea are also said to be negotiating with Ajax over a potential deal for Brazilian winger Antony.
    And the next owners of the Blues must guarantee that they will stay in charge of the club for a minimum of TEN years.
    Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the takeover in our live blog…
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Rom’s top of the earners list
    Summer flop Romelu Lukaku is Chelsea’s biggest earner.
    The Belgian forward picks up an eye-watering £325,000-a-week at the Blues.
    He could, however, already be heading for the exit door.

    New owner yet to be found
    A new Chelsea owner is yet to be found.
    Here’s a look at Roman Abramovich’s spending numbers.

    Chelsea confident on Kounde
    Chelsea are confident they can sign Sevilla defender Jules Kounde in the summer.
    According to 90min, there is a mutual determination for the transfer to be completed.
    The Blues actively tried to sign Kounde last summer but were reportedly “blindsided” by a last minute increase in demands by Sevilla.

    Jorginho on Drogba
    Chelsea midfielder has revealed “it would be nice” if he could have played with the great Didier Drogba.
    The retired striker had so many memorable moments while playing for the Blues.
    Drogba scored the equaliser and winning penalty in Chelsea’s first Champions League trophy win in 2012.
    On Drogba, Jorginho said: “What a player. What a striker.
    “It would be nice if I could have played with him. It wouldn’t be bad to have his movements as a striker.”
    Mason Mount: Premier League stats so far
    Will Chelsea’s Mason Mount reach double figures in goals and assists this season in the league?

    ‘Antonio Rudiger… who is this?’
    Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti gave absolutely nothing away after he was quizzed about signing Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger.
    The legendary Italian boss was speaking after a thrilling Champions League semi-final first leg tie away at Manchester City.
    Although Real Madrid lost the game, at 4-3 down heading to the Bernabeu there is still everything to play for.
    Rudiger, meanwhile, has told Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel he will leave the Londoners at the end of the season on a free transfer.
    Real Madrid have emerged as the frontrunners to snap up the centre-half in what would be a big coup.
    But after being asked about Rudiger following the defeat at the Etihad, Ancelotti went all coy.
    He answered: “Antonio Rudiger, who is this?
    “He is a Chelsea player until… he is still a Chelsea player, and I cannot say anything about this.”
    Ball-carrying midfielder
    Declan Rice is the leader in progressive yards carried outside of England’s “big six”.
    The England midfielder has carried the ball over 6,000 yards.
    Newcastle’s Allan Saint-Maximin is behind on 4,663.
    If the “Big Six” were included, Rice would be behind Aymeric Laporte, Ruben Dias and Joel Matip.
    Rice is a summer transfer target for both Chelsea and Man Utd.

    Pie Eyed
    In case you missed it.
    Chelsea are keeping tabs on Arminia Bielefeld centre-back Amos Pieper, according to reports.
    Pieper, 24, has impressed in the Bundesliga this season despite Arminia heading for relegation.
    The defender is available on a free in the summer and the Blues have asked to be kept in the loop in regard to his availability, report The Mirror.
    There are several other clubs interested in Pieper, including Borussia Dortmund – with Pieper previously playing for the club’s academy.
    Premier League pair Newcastle and Southampton are also said to be interested in the German and Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are keen to strike a bargain.
    Chelsea stars fear Tuchel could be forced to QUIT
    Chelsea players believe the sanctions placed on them by the government are costing them and could force Thomas Tuchel to quit, say reports.
    Boss Tuchel claimed the club have been left with their “hands tied” as Antonio Rudiger is set to leave.
    Rudiger, 29, is due to bank almost £60million with his mega move to Real Madrid.
    And the Times report the squad “fear” the complications could “push” Tuchel out the club too.
    The Stamford Bridge dressing room are concerned they are “powerless” as they wait for sanctions and this could harm the squad.
    How Man Utd could line up against Chelsea
    Ralf Rangnick is in the midst of an injury crisis at Manchester United and currently has just 14 senior players fit for action.
    The interim boss is down to the bare bones of his squad after confirming skipper Harry Maguire is not available for tomorrow’s clash against Chelsea.
    Maguire, who was benched for the trip to Arsenal, is sidelined with a “niggle” in his knee but there are fears he could be out for the season.
    Elsewhere Jadon Sancho misses out through illness, while Fred has not recovered from a hip flexor problem in time to feature.
    Paul Pogba, Luke Shaw, Edinson Cavani are all also set to miss out, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka is a doubt with an unspecified issue.

    Tuchel to stay at Chelsea
    Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that will stay at Chelsea next season.
    There has been some speculation recently around the idea of the 48-year-old leaving due to the sanctions placed on the club by the UK Government.
    However, when speaking to Adam Newson for Football.London, he said: “From pre-season next season we will give our very best and I will be fully involved with all my heart and my knowledge.”
    Tuchel on Ruben Loftus-Cheek
    During today’s press conference, Thomas Tuchel was asked about the impact of Loftus-Cheek.
    He said: “He needs to push himself to the limit. He had a bit of shy game like everybody else against Arsenal and not such a good half against Crystal Palace but stepped up in the second half in dribbling and ball recoveries and suddenly the crowd was there.
    “In general he is a shy and calm person but he needs to discover the monster in him and unleash this on a regular basis. It is necessary.
    “It is not enough to just be on the pitch, it might seem a good first step given his last years but we cannot let him think that is enough.
    “We try every day and I think we are successful given his development.
    “He needs to understand his potential and his physical capacity every day in training, he cannot let loose. He needs to play every match like a final.”
    Credit: Getty
    Tuchel on tomorrow’s trip to Old Trafford
    During today’s press conference, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel said: “I’m personally very happy to play against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
    “I arrive with a strong club. I’m happy to have this match and it will always be a big match for me no matter what form they are in.
    “That’s why we prepare in the best possible way. We focus on their last matches, we should not get confused by their lack of points, their squad is full of quality.”
    ‘He loves responsibility’ – Tuchel
    Thomas Tuchel has reflected on Antonio Rudiger’s upcoming departure from Chelsea, stating that the team are sad to see him go.
    He said: “I don’t think anybody likes it. He gives everybody confidence in the dressing room.
    “He is a unique character and plays on an outstanding level. He sometimes takes the focus towards him, he loves responsibility.
    “I don’t think anybody likes this decision but we have to accept it. Like it or not there will be life at Chelsea after Toni.
    “It is also the most important thing for us that it ends like it started, on the highest level.”
    Credit: Alamy
    Chelsea team news vs Man Utd
    Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Mateo Kovacic, Ben Chilwell, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ross Barkley will all be absent from the Chelsea squad ahead of tomorrow’s game against Man Utd.
    In his pre-match press conference, he said: “Kova will be out, Ben Chilwell will be out and Callum will be out.
    “Rudiger was in training yesterday, so was Reece James, we have another training coming and hopefully they will be fine.
    “Andreas needs another examination, but hopefully he will train.
    “Ross Barkley is sick and will not be in the squad.”
    Thomas Tuchel on the importance on a win vs Man Utd
    During today’s press conference, Tuchel said:
    “It’s always a good time for a win no matter if you won the last match or not. It just shows it is not easy and you can get these streaks.
    “With all the respect that we have for the history and the occasion and the quality in general of Man U, we will prepare to win this match and then we will see what questions are asked.
    “It is not so much now or never because they are struggling with results recently. We try to prepare in the best way possible and to win the match tomorrow.
    “For me as football fan and fan of the Premier League, it is a big match.”
    Credit: Getty
    Jor dropping
    Chelsea star Jorginho reckons VAR is to blame for his horrendous penalty miss against West Ham.
    The midfielder, 29, fluffed his lines from the spot in the 86th minute after Craig Dawson was sent off for a foul on Romelu Lukaku.
    Jorginho fired off a weak effort after his trademark skip, giving Lukasz Fabianski an easy save.
    He has now apologised to Chelsea fans and teammates for his poor penalty.
    But the Italian believes ref Michael Oliver’s lengthy VAR check saw him lose focus.
    Jorginho said: “This sort of pressure, especially in games like this when you need to win and it’s last minute, and you try to isolate your mind from all that pressure even though it’s hard.
    “And then you have the VAR so it takes longer, it’s harder to keep focus.
    “What you need to do and what I try to do is I try to isolate my mind of all this pressure, and unfortunately this time it didn’t work.
    “When you have that little moment of doubt that’s usually when you make the mistake. Maybe I had too much time to think about it, I don’t know.
    “This time it went like that and I’m sorry. I feel bad because it’s not a nice feeling.”
    Rud move
    Chelsea legend John Terry has been left baffled by the club’s decision to let defender Antonio Rudiger to leave.
    Blues boss Thomas Tuchel confirmed after his side’s win over West Ham on Sunday that the German will be departing Stamford Bridge when his contract expires at the end of the season.
    And Terry does not understand why Chelsea failed to tie Rudiger down.
    Responding to the news, the former Blues captain said: “How have we let this man go,” along with three covering faces emojis.
    Time for Torres
    Pau Torres has received interest from Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea as the Premier League sides prepare to activate his £50million release clause in the summer.
    The Villarreal centre-back has been heavily linked with a move to England for some time.
    But the end of this season appears the most likely time for him to secure a move away from the LaLiga side given his release clause can be triggered.
    And journalist Fabrizio Romano said: “Pau Torres is attracting interest from top clubs again as his release clause will be valid this summer: €55/60m, available until the end of the market.
    “Manchester United and Manchester City are both interested – Chelsea have also sent their scouts to follow him.”
    Credit: Getty
    Rudiger’s replacement?
    Chelsea have reportedly told Dujon Sterling that he will be needed in the first team this summer when Antonio Rudiger leaves the club.
    According to Goal.com, Sterling will be a key player during the pre-season period.
    The 22-year-old recently returned to Cobham after his season ended prematurely.
    He sustained an ankle injury against Nottingham Forest while on loan at Blackpool.
    Thomas Tuchel is said to be an admirer of Sterling.
    Credit: Mark Cosgrove/News Images
    Don’t be Rud
    Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti gave absolutely nothing away after he was quizzed about signing Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger.
    The legendary Italian boss was speaking after a thrilling Champions League semi-final first leg tie away at Manchester City.
    Real Madrid have emerged as the frontrunners to snap up the centre-half in what would be a big coup.
    But after being asked about Rudiger following the defeat at the Etihad, Ancelotti went all coy.
    He answered: “Antonio Rudiger, who is this?
    “He is a Chelsea player until… he is still a Chelsea player, and I cannot say anything about this.”
    Pie Eyed
    Chelsea are keeping tabs on Arminia Bielefeld centre-back Amos Pieper, according to reports.
    Pieper, 24, has impressed in the Bundesliga this season despite Arminia heading for relegation.
    The defender is available on a free in the summer and the Blues have asked to be kept in the loop in regard to his availability, report The Mirror.
    There are several other clubs interested in Pieper, including Borussia Dortmund – with Pieper previously playing for the club’s academy.
    Premier League pair Newcastle and Southampton are also said to be interested in the German and Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are keen to strike a bargain.
    Credit: EPA

    Good morning Chelsea fans
    Parties bidding for Chelsea have been invited to Stamford Bridge for a final round of talks.
    The Telegraph claims representatives from the remaining three bids will be in London this week for one last roll of the dice.
    Chelsea and Raine, in charge of the sale, will listen to each of the final £2.5billion proposals as they hone in on a winner.
    LA Dodgers owner Todd Boehly, Boston Celtics chief Stephen Pagliuca and British businessman Sir Martin Broughton head the three groups left in the running to replace Roman Abramovich.
    Chelsea legend John Terry has been left baffled by the club’s decision to let defender Antonio Rudiger to leave.
    Responding to the news, the former Blues captain said: “How have we let this man go,” along with three covering faces emojis.
    Chelsea star Jorginho reckons VAR is to blame for his horrendous penalty miss against West Ham.
    The midfielder, 29, fluffed his lines from the spot in the 86th minute after Craig Dawson was sent off for a foul on Romelu Lukaku.
    Jorginho said: “This sort of pressure, especially in games like this when you need to win and it’s last minute, and you try to isolate your mind from all that pressure even though it’s hard.
    “And then you have the VAR so it takes longer, it’s harder to keep focus.
    “What you need to do and what I try to do is I try to isolate my mind of all this pressure, and unfortunately this time it didn’t work.
    “When you have that little moment of doubt that’s usually when you make the mistake. Maybe I had too much time to think about it, I don’t know.
    “This time it went like that and I’m sorry. I feel bad because it’s not a nice feeling.”
    Liverpool ‘make contact’ over Tchouameni
    In case you missed it.
    Liverpool have initiated contact with Monaco star and Chelsea target Aurelien Tchouameni ahead of the summer transfer window, reports suggest.
    That is according to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, who claims that the Reds have approached Tchouameni as manager Jurgen Klopp is looking to strengthen in midfield.
    Klopp is reportedly a big fan of the midfielder, who has attracted immense interest following a series of impressive performances in Ligue 1.
    The France international is also open to the prospect of playing in the Premier League.
    The 22-year-old is keen to leave Monaco in the summer and the club could be willing to strike a deal, even though his contract expires in 2024.
    Chelsea’s top earners this season
    Romelu Lukaku is being linked with a move away from Chelsea just one year after his return.
    Lukaku was re-signed by the Blues from Inter for a record £97.5million fee.
    And he is also Chelsea’s top earner on £325,000-a-week wages.
    Money well spent, Blues fans?

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    Chelsea stars fear Thomas Tuchel could be forced to QUIT and feel transfer ban is ‘costing them key players’

    CHELSEA players believe the sanctions placed on them by the Government could force Thomas Tuchel to quit the club, according to reports.Boss Tuchel claimed the club have been left with their “hands tied” as Antonio Rudiger is set to leave.
    Tuchel said he was powerless to stop Rudiger leaving the club amongst ongoing sanctionsCredit: Alamy
    Players are reportedly fearful that the limitations could force Tuchel out the doorCredit: Rex
    Rudiger, 29, is due to bank almost £60million with his mega move to Real Madrid.
    And the Times report the squad “fear” the complications could “push” Tuchel out the club too.
    The Stamford Bridge dressing room are concerned they are “powerless” as they wait for sanctions and this could harm the squad.
    Fellow defender Andreas Christensen’s contract is also set to expire in the summer.
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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;}BLUES NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea ‘in Antony talks’, Fofana ‘wanted to replace Rudiger’
    And he could be heading to Barcelona as president Joan Laporta has all but confirmed the signing.
    Cesar Azpilicueta could be joining him in Catalonia, despite triggering an extension.
    The report claims: “Tuchel blamed the departure of the German on the sanctions and described the situation as ‘disappointing’.
    “He has been powerless over the future of Rudiger and Christensen and is unable to seek replacements until the takeover is completed.
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    “Players fear that the problems could push the coach towards the exit.”
    Tuchel spoke about Rudiger departing and the impact it would have on his Blues side.
    But admitted that life would go on without the German centre-back.
    The 48-year-old said: “It will be incredibly difficult because Toni is a big personality, a big leader and he takes fear away from other people. We will miss him a lot.
    “It will be challenging but, no matter how much I love Toni and how big a role he has played, there will be life at Chelsea without Toni Rudiger. We will find solutions.”
    Meanwhile, Chelsea’s three remaining potential owners have been asked to give a “final pitch” for control of the club.
    US bankers The Raine Group, who are running the contest on behalf of sanctioned Roman Abramovich, contacted the three consortiums to ask for a last showdown ahead of a final decision on the “preferred bidder”.
    Raine are understood to be asking all three about their commitment to rebuilding Stamford Bridge.
    They will also be quizzed on funding for Chelsea team improvements in both the short and medium-term.
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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 The Sun.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;}VLAD’S THREAT .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;}Russia threatens to strike targets in Britain over UK weapons in Ukraine
    Despite his sanctioned status, Abramovich will still give his final assent to the chosen winner, before the Premier League can begin its owners and directors test.
    That is expected to take a minimum of 10 days to be completed, with the Government then also having to approve the winning bid. More

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    Chelsea tracking Amos Pieper over summer transfer with 24-year-old defender’s deal running out at Arminia Bielefeld

    CHELSEA are keeping tabs on Arminia Bielefeld centre-back Amos Pieper, according to reports.Pieper, 24, has impressed in the Bundesliga this season despite Arminia heading for relegation.
    Amos Pieper (left) is attracting the interest of several teams including ChelseaCredit: EPA
    The defender is available on a free in the summer and the Blues have asked to be kept in the loop in regard to his availability, report The Mirror.
    There are several other clubs interested in Pieper, including Borussia Dortmund – with Pieper previously playing for the club’s academy.
    Premier League pair Newcastle and Southampton are also said to be interested in the German and Ralph Hasenuttl’s side are keen to strike a bargain.
    But Chelsea could be desperate for a centre-back in the summer with Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen seemingly on their way out.
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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;}BLUES NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea ‘in Antony talks’, Fofana ‘wanted to replace Rudiger’
    Rudiger has rejected multiple contract offers from the club and could join Real Madrid, with Christensen linked to Barcelona.
    Replacing the pair effectively will be key for Chelsea and it is believed the club will move back in for Jules Kounde, having failed in their bid to sign the Sevilla star last summer.
    Chelsea will hope a takeover is completed in the next few weeks to allow time to bring in transfer targets.
    Pieper has a little more than two months remaining on his contract and with other clubs sniffing around Chelsea could miss out if they are held up by the takeover.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    The three remaining potential owners have been asked to give a “final pitch” for control of the club before a final decision is made. More

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    ‘Antonio Rudiger… who is this?’ – Ancelotti’s amazing reply as Real Madrid boss refuses to confirm transfer from Chelsea

    REAL MADRID boss Carlo Ancelotti gave absolutely nothing away after he was quizzed about signing Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger.The legendary Italian boss was speaking after a thrilling Champions League semi-final first leg tie away at Manchester City.

    Antonio Rudiger is expected to leave Chelsea and join Real MadridCredit: Reuters
    Although Real Madrid lost the game, at 4-3 down heading to the Bernabeu there is still everything to play for.
    Rudiger, meanwhile, has told Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel he will leave the Londoners at the end of the season on a free transfer.
    Real Madrid have emerged as the frontrunners to snap up the centre-half in what would be a big coup.
    But after being asked about Rudiger following the defeat at the Etihad, Ancelotti went all coy.
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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 Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES 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 ‘in Antony talks’, Fofana ‘wanted to replace Rudiger’
    He answered: “Antonio Rudiger, who is this?
    “He is a Chelsea player until… he is still a Chelsea player, and I cannot say anything about this.”
    Blues boss Tuchel confirmed after his side’s win over West Ham on Sunday that the German will be departing Stamford Bridge when his contract expires at the end of the season.
    Chelsea legend John Terry, who returned to Chelsea to take up a coaching consultancy role at the beginning of 2022, does not understand why the club failed to tie Rudiger down.
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    Responding to the news, the former Blues captain said: “How have we let this man go,” along with three covering faces emojis.
    Rudiger is reportedly closing in on a move to Real Madrid in the summer.
    He is expected to sign a four-year deal which will see him earn around £300,000 a week.
    Ancelotti refused to be drawn on whether he is in for RudigerCredit: AFP More

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    John Terry baffled by Chelsea letting Antonio Rudiger quit on a free as fans rage at becoming ‘Real Madrid feeder club’

    CHELSEA legend John Terry has been left baffled by the club’s decision to let defender Antonio Rudiger to leave.Blues boss Thomas Tuchel confirmed after his side’s win over West Ham on Sunday that the German will be departing Stamford Bridge when his contract expires at the end of the season.
    Rudiger failed to agree terms with Chelsea over a new dealCredit: Rex
    Terry cannot understand why Rudiger is not staying at ChelseaCredit: Getty
    And Terry, who returned to Chelsea to take up a coaching consultancy role at the beginning of 2022, does not understand why Chelsea failed to tie Rudiger down.
    Responding to the news, the former Blues captain said: “How have we let this man go,” along with three covering faces emojis.
    Rudiger is reportedly closing in on a move to Real Madrid in the summer.
    He is expected to sign a four-year deal which will see him earn around £300,000 a week.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUES NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea ‘in Antony talks’, Fofana ‘wanted to replace Rudiger’
    Rudiger has been superb since Tuchel took over from Frank Lampard in January 2021.
    And Blues fans are gutted to see him leave after he played an integral part in their Champions League triumph last season.
    One said “Sad to see him leave”, while another added: “My heart is broken.”
    A third Chelsea supporter frustratingly described them as a “Real Madrid feeder club” as Rudiger prepares to join fellow ex-Blues star Eden Hazard at the Bernabeu.
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    Tuchel blamed the recent sanctions inflicted upon Chelsea’s outgoing owner Roman Abramovich as a major reason why they could not pin Rudiger down.
    He said: “The situation is that he wants to leave the club. He informed me of this in a private talk.
    ‘We gave everything – me and the club – but we could not fight anymore because of the sanctions.
    “Without the sanctions we would at least be able to carry on fighting, but our hands are tied.
    “We don’t take it personally. It is his decision.” More

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    Man Utd and Man City in transfer tussle to land Villarreal star Pau Torres with Spanish club wanting £50m

    PAU TORRES has received interest from Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea as the Premier League sides prepare to activate his £50million release clause in the summer.The Villarreal centre-back has been heavily linked with a move to England for some time.
    Torres is being eyed up by some of England’s biggest clubsCredit: Getty
    But the end of this season appears the most likely time for him to secure a move away from the LaLiga side given his release clause can be triggered.
    And journalist Fabrizio Romano said: “Pau Torres is attracting interest from top clubs again as his release clause will be valid this summer: €55/60m, available until the end of the market.
    “Manchester United and Manchester City are both interested – Chelsea have also sent their scouts to follow him.”
    Spanish international Torres has impressed since breaking through as a first team regular at Villarreal in 2019.
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FOOTBALL.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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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;}MAN UTD 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;}Ten Hag’s ‘De Gea concerns’ revealed, Paul Pogba ‘leaves club WhatsApp group’
    He was a part of Unai Emery’s side which beat Man Utd in the Europa League final last season.
    And he has also been key in their run to the Champions League semi-finals this year.
    Man Utd are keen to bolster their options at centre-half following an awful season on all fronts.
    Club captain Harry Maguire has been out of form, while Raphael Varane has failed to show the kind of quality he provided at Real Madrid.
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#dcdddd;background-color:#ffffff;}.css-14dqn90{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(4px/2);margin-right:calc(4px/2);}.css-12an5ma{font-family:The Sun;font-size:20px;line-height:1.2;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;padding:1px 0px;}.css-12an5ma::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.261875em + -1px);}.css-12an5ma::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:calc(-0.25em + -1.3px);}.css-1hyfh0x{color:rgba(73,157,124,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;margin-right:4px;}.css-1hyfh0x:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}GARY’S PAIN .css-1efa55o{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1efa55o:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I was plagued by tiny coffin nightmare as son battled leukaemia, says Lineker
    Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly and Phil Jones have all been in and out of the team to varying degrees.
    Chelsea, who have sent scouts to monitor Torres, are also desperate to sign new defenders as they prepare for the departure of both Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
    And Man City may be keen to freshen things up in their back line, if only to give themselves some more back-up following Ruben Dias’ injury issues.
    Torres is set to feature for Villarreal on Wednesday evening when they take on Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final at Anfield. More

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    Chelsea ‘in Antony transfer talks’, Fofana ‘wanted to replace Rudiger’, new owner must stay TEN YEARS – takeover latest

    REAL MADRID have reportedly reach a ‘verbal agreement’ with Chelsea’s superstar defender Antonio Rudiger.The German international is out of contract in the summer and Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that he will leave the club.
    One man the Blues are reportedly looking at to replace the German is Leicester’s Wesley Fofana.
    Chelsea are also said to be negotiating with Ajax over a potential deal for Brazilian winger Antony.
    And the next owners of the Blues must guarantee that they will stay in charge of the club for a minimum of TEN years.
    Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the takeover in our live blog…
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Chelsea target Araujo signs new Barca contract 
    Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo has agreed a new four-year contract at the club – with a ONE BILLION EUROS release clause.
    The 23-year-old defender had been a target for both Manchester United and Chelsea.
    Barcelona confirmed today that they had reached any agreement with the Uruguayan international to extend his stay with the club.
    And it looks to be a lengthy one, with his release clause working out at a whopping £850million.
    Araujo will officially put pen to paper in a ceremony on the pitch at the Nou Camp on Friday.
    The centre-back joins midfielder starlet Pedri in signing a new contract this season with a one billion euros release clause.
    Liverpool ‘make contact’ over Tchouameni
    Liverpool have initiated contact with Monaco star and Chelsea target Aurelien Tchouameni ahead of the summer transfer window, reports suggest.
    That is according to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, who claims that the Reds have approached Tchouameni as manager Jurgen Klopp is looking to strengthen in midfield.
    Klopp is reportedly a big fan of the midfielder, who has attracted immense interest following a series of impressive performances in Ligue 1.
    The France international is also open to the prospect of playing in the Premier League.
    The 22-year-old is keen to leave Monaco in the summer and the club could be willing to strike a deal, even though his contract expires in 2024.
    Next five fixtures
    Chelsea face top-four hopefuls Manchester United at Old Trafford NEXT.

    Jorginho: We’d all miss Rudiger
    Chelsea midfielder Jorginho says everyone at the club will miss Antonio Rudiger if the Germany defender’s expected move to Real Madrid happens this summer.
    The Italy playmaker told Sky Sports: “He’s been here a long time so if he leaves then we’re going to miss him.
    “He’s a big personality and he’s helped us a lot.
    “We’ve had amazing times here and he’s a good friend of mine, and if he leaves then everyone at the club will miss him, not just me.”
    Is Gvardiol right for Blues?
    Could RB Leipzig prospect Josko Gvardiol be a good option in Chelsea’s defence?
    The Blues experts at football.london have taken a closer look at the 20-year-old Croatia centre-back’s credentials and concluded he might be the man to fill their Antonio Rudiger-shaped hole next season.
    Their report says: “It’s no wonder why [Thomas] Tuchel is a big fan. His defensive stats this season display why he is rated so highly.
    “As per FBRef.com, Gvardiol ranks highly among other Bundesliga defenders when it comes to pressures applied per game with 11.78.
    “That is coupled with a few other metrics such as tackles per 90 (2.07), interceptions per 90 (3.34) and successful blocks per 90 (2.07).”
    Can Torres fill Rudiger’s boots?
    Chelsea have been linked with a move for Villarreal centre-half Pau Torres.
    And with news Blues defender Antonio Rudiger is set to join Real Madrid this summer, it seems certain the Spain star would have to fill the void left by the versatile German in the Blues backline.
    The Telegraph says Torres would be the stand-out option as Rudiger’s successor, but add they are likely to face competition for his signature from Manchester United.
    And, of course, any business by Chelsea in the transfer market will only be possible once sanctions are lifted following the arrival of new owners.
    Lukaku costs £0.5m per shot
    A new study suggests Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku has cost them nearly half-a-million pound for every shot he has made this season.
    A bettingodds.com report says the £15.33million Lukaku has earned so far this campaign from his £18.2m annual wage means that each of his 31 shots on goal have cost the club £494,397.
    Belgium star Lukaku, who rejoined the Blues from Inter Milan last summer for a club record fee of £97.5m, has 12 goals so far this term.
    Chelsea ‘missed out on Alisson’
    Chelsea reportedly missed out on the chance to sign Brazil keeper Alisson fours years ago.
    The Daily Telegraph says the Blues were unwilling to pay Roma’s asking price before he joined Prem rivals Liverpool for a then world-record fee of £66.8million in July 2018.
    Their report points out Chelsea instead paid Athletic Bilbao £71.6m a month later for shot-stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who now regularly warms the Blues bench.
    Chelsea eye Reims teen Ekitike
    Chelsea and Manchester United have both joined Newcastle in the race to star Reims teenager Hugo Ekitike, according to Goal.
    The France Under-20 striker, 19, is being tracked by Europe’s big hitters after bagging nine goals in in 22 Ligue 1 games.
    Reims president president Jean-Pierre Caillot says they knocked back a £29million bid in the winter but admits they will sell at the right price.
    Reims starlet Hugo Ekitike is said to be attracting interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubsCredit: Getty
    Lukaku pay cut at Inter?
    Romelu Lukaku would have to cut his annual salary in HALF to secure a move back to Inter Milan, according to Football Italia.
    Chelsea’s £97.5million striker has reportedly started talks with the Serie A club about a return after leaving them last summer.
    The Belgium star will still command a big fee but he might have to make his peace with a reduced salary of only £5.5m-per-year rather than his current £10-11m pay packet to return to the Nerazzurri.
    Duo should go for Rudiger
    Glen Johnson says Prem pacesetters Manchester City and Liverpool will be missing a trick if they do not make a move for Antonio Rudiger.
    The Germany centre-half, 29, has reportedly agreed to join Real Madrid when his deal with Chelsea expires at the end of the season.
    Retired England and Liverpool defender Johnson, 37, told ggrecon.com: “I am a bit surprised that neither of those teams seemed to make a move for him because great players available on a free don’t come around very often.”
    He added: “I think if he could get into one of Manchester City or Liverpool’s starting elevens, then I’d say Liverpool.
    “I’d have liked seeing him alongside Virgil van Dijk. When he’s on song he’s fantastic, but he does have faults, so you can’t break the bank for that.”
    Good morning Chelsea fans
    Antonio Rudiger is on the verge of joining Real Madrid this summer.
    Thomas Tuchel has already confirmed the defender will leave Chelsea on a free transfer.
    And Real are now close to agreeing a lucrative four-year deal with the German.
    Chelsea are already on the hunt for replacements.
    And it’s reckoned Tuchel’s top choice is Jules Kounde.
    Indeed, the defender has already told Sevilla he wants to leave.
    But it remains to be seen if the Spaniards play ball after effectively blocking a transfer last year.
    Elsewhere, Chelsea are reportedly keen on signing Riyad Mahrez this summer.
    The Man City star is out of contract in 2023 and is a prime target for AC Milan.
    Foot Mercato claims PSG, Barcelona and Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation.
    But Chelsea have emerged as prime contenders to Milan for Mahrez’s signature.
    Finally, the successful bidders for Chelsea must guarantee that they will stay in charge of the football club for at least ten years.
    Raine Group, the merchant bank overseeing the sale of the Blues, has contacted the three remaining parties to ask that any controlling shareholders do not sell their prospective stakes until at least 2032.
    Jordan blasts ‘greedy’ Rudiger demands
    Simon Jordan believes Chelsea are right to let Antonio Rudiger leave due to his ‘greedy’ demands.
    Jordan told TalkSport: “Have a look at the conditions, are you looking at some of the conditions they [Rudiger and his representatives] want?
    “£200k-a-week, which by the way is outrageous amounts of money.
    “He wants a £10million sign on. This is madness. Greed, it’s absolute greed.
    “He’s going to Real Madrid because he’s greedy, end of discussion. Good riddance.”
    Terry urges final Rudiger offer
    Chelsea legend John Terry has urged the club to make a final mega-money offer to Antonio Rudiger.
    He wrote on social media: “Give him 300k a week then, we will have to always [spend] 80-100 million to replace him and also give that player at least 300k a week.
    “And won’t know how long it will take him to settle or if he even will.”
    Chelsea’s top earners this season
    Romelu Lukaku is being linked with a move away from Chelsea just one year after his return.
    Lukaku was re-signed by the Blues from Inter for a record £97.5million fee.
    And he is also Chelsea’s top earner on £325,000-a-week wages.
    Money well spent, Blues fans?

    From SunSport reporter Martin Blackburn
    Man City have ruled out a summer move for West Ham’s England midfielder Declan Rice.
    That’s because Pep Guardiola is focused on signing Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland.
    City are big fans of Rice, but they already have Rodri in his position while West Ham want upwards of £150million.
    That means Chelsea and Man United are set to battle it out for the anchorman alone.
    Kounde tells Sevilla he’s off
    Chelsea target Jules Kounde has reportedly told Sevilla he wants to leave this summer.
    The centre-back is believed to be Thomas Tuchel’s top choice to replace Antonio Rudiger.
    The Mail claims Kounde has informed Sevilla chiefs he wants to join the Blues.
    And he is eager to avoid a repeat of last summer’s transfer saga, where Sevilla raised Kounde’s price at the last moment to block a deal.
    Chelsea join hunt for Mahrez
    Chelsea are reportedly keen on signing Riyad Mahrez this summer.
    The Man City star is out of contract in 2023 and is a prime target for AC Milan.
    Foot Mercato claims PSG, Barcelona and Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation.
    But Chelsea have emerged as prime contenders to Milan for Mahrez’s signature.
    Biggest manager pay-offs in history
    Chelsea boast a whopping 50 PER CENT of the top boss pay-outs ever.
    Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho are among those to cash in after being axed by the Blues.
    Check out the full list below!

    Chilwell muscles in on Pulisic
    Chelsea star Christian Pulisic found his post-match interview raided by Ben Chilwell on Sunday.
    The American came off the bench to give Chelsea a late winner over West Ham.
    But his talk afterwards was interrupted when Chilwell hilariously gate-crashed the chat for a hug.
    Watch Chelsea star Ben Chilwell hilariously gate-crash Christian Pulisic’s TV interview after last-gasp West Ham winner
    Chelsea hunt for Rudiger replacement
    Chelsea have confirmed Antonio Rudiger will indeed be leaving on a free transfer this summer.
    But just who will the Blues sign to replace their star defender?
    From THREE players based in Spain, to a big name struggling in Italy, there are plenty of stars on Thomas Tuchel’s list.
    And there could even be hope for one of Chelsea’s very own Cobham products.
    READ MORE HERE
    Thuram available for bargain fee
    Arsenal and Chelsea target Marcus Thuram could be available for as little as £10million this summer.
    The Athletic claims Borussia Monchengladbach are ready to let their versatile striker leave for a bargain fee.
    That’s because Thuram is out of contract in 2023 and unlikely to extend his deal.
    Spurs are also thought to be keen on the France international.
    Cesar Azpilicueta’s incredible silverware collection
    Cesar Azpilicueta’s dwindling contract was automatically extended this month after reaching 20 Premier League appearances.
    But the Blues skipper continues to be linked with a move to Barcelona.
    Fellow defenders Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger are already on their way out.
    Can Chelsea afford to lose the man who’s won it all at Stamford Bridge?

    Blues busy tracking new Zlatan
    Chelsea and Tottenham are reportedly braced to do battle for Inter Milan hot-shot Martin Satriano, who’s been compared to Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
    The 6ft 2in striker has been in rare form whilst on loan with Ligue 1 side Brest this season – netting four goals in just 12 appearances across all competitions.
    The youngster made his debut for Inter this season – making three appearances before being shipped out on loan to France in the January transfer window in order to aid his development.
    And Satriano’s impressive displays have caught the attention of London rivals Chelsea and Spurs who are both prowling for attacking reinforcements this summer, The Mirror claim.
    The Blues are bracing themselves for the departure of Romelu Lukaku, who is eyeing return to Satriano’s parent club Inter, and are keen to make the 20-year-old part of any deal.
    New owners must stay for decade
    The successful bidders for Chelsea must guarantee that they will stay in charge of the football club for at least ten years.
    Sky News understands that Raine Group, the merchant bank overseeing the sale of the Blues, has contacted the three remaining parties to ask that any controlling shareholders do not sell their prospective stakes until at least 2032.
    The move has been designed by the New York-based bank in order to provide long-term continuity to a club that has endured two months of upheaval.
    It is understood that such criteria will be incorporated into the sale contract, thus making it a legally enforceable act.
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    Chelsea ‘refused to pay £66.8m to complete Alisson transfer’ before forking out even more for flop Kepa in 2018

    CHELSEA rejected the chance to sign Liverpool star Alisson in 2018 – but instead spent MORE on flop Kepa Arrizabalaga.The Blues lost Thibaut Courtois to Real Madrid four years ago and were in dire need of a goalkeeper that would inspire confidence.
    Chelsea had the chance to sign Liverpool star Alisson back in 2018Credit: Rex
    Instead, Chelsea went for flop Kepa Arrizabalaga, who cost even more at £71.6mCredit: Getty
    According to the Daily Telegraph, the West Londoners initially targeted Alisson, who was enjoying a stunning two-year stint at Roma.
    But the Serie A side knew how desperate Chelsea were for a keeper and drove such a hard bargain that led the Premier League giants to look elsewhere.
    That is when Liverpool, who also needed a top shot-stopper, moved in for the Brazil international and signed him for £66.8 million – a world record fee for a keeper at the time.
    Chelsea then eyed Kepa, who was impressing at Athletic Bilbao, and crushed Alisson’s record as they forked out a whopping £71.6m.
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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 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    That made the Spaniard the club’s most expensive transfer in history, before Kai Havertz’s arrival in 2020.
    It has not really worked out for Kepa at Stamford Bridge, as he quickly fell out of favour after some high-profile errors and his Carabao Cup final clash with Maurizio Sarri.
    Thus, Chelsea quickly returned to the market for a new goalkeeper in 2020 when they signed Edouard Mendy, who has been No1 ever since.
    Alisson, on the other hand, has been so impressive at Liverpool he is considered among the best keepers in the world.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    The Brazilian has helped the Reds win a Champions League as well as a Premier League title.
    The 29-year-old is also among the driving forces behind the Merseysiders’ push for an unprecedented quadruple this season. More