Chelsea is awaiting the scan results on club captain Reece James, who recently sustained a hamstring injury.
Following Cesar Azpilicueta’s departure from the team in the summer, the England international was named the team’s new captain earlier this month.
Last Sunday’s 1-1 tie with Liverpool saw James take the armband off due to “tiredness,” according to manager Mauricio Pochettino, but he later put it back on.
Sky Italy reports that additional tests have identified a hamstring strain, and Chelsea must now wait in suspense to learn the full degree of the harm.
The 23-year-old was limited to 24 games last season and did not participate in the World Cup because of a knee injury he suffered during a Champions League victory against Milan almost a year ago.
Malo Gusto stepped in for James during the final minutes of the match against Liverpool, and Pochettino expects the summer purchase from Lyon to fill in against West Ham on Sunday as he looks to earn his first competitive victory.
Meanwhile, Chelsea has grudgingly agreed to sell Lewis Hall after Newcastle made a £28 million offer.
The kid had an impressive breakthrough last season, and while the Blues had no intention of offloading one of their most promising young players at the beginning of the summer, the offer—even though it came from a Premier League rival—has been deemed too good to refuse.
In addition, Michael Olise’s decision to sign a new four-year contract with Crystal Palace has derailed Pochettino’s efforts to sign him from the Eagles.
Chelsea expected to close a deal fast and this week activated the 21-year-old’s £35 million release clause.
However, Palace, incensed by Chelsea’s offer, has persuaded the former Reading star to commit his near future to the team and take the lead in Selhurst Park’s post-Wilfried Zaha era.
Lewis Hall, a talented teenager who Chelsea is willing to sell this summer, is valued at £30 million.
In spite of the club’s strange and turbulent season, Hall earned his Premier League debut for the Blues last year and made nine appearances in the top division.
The 18-year-old, who has earned England Under-21 caps, is clearly liked at Stamford Bridge because he signed a new deal this summer that keeps him with the team through the year 2030.
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea’s initial intention was to loan Hall out for this season, which is still a possibility, but they are also willing to sell him to a buyer.
The adolescent is reportedly a target for Newcastle United and Crystal Palace, but according to the source, if they want to buy him permanently, they would have to fork over £30 million.
Hall won’t be playing frequently this season under Mauricio Pochettino, but Chelsea is still open to loaning him out if they don’t get the kind of offer they’re looking for.
Academy-made goods This summer, Chelsea already lost Mason Mount and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to Manchester United and AC Milan, respectively. Trevoh Chalobah and Callum Hudson-Odoi are set to follow them out of the club.
Selling indigenous talent is one method to recover some money after Chelsea’s massive spending over the past year, yet there is no assurance that their buying spree has ended for the summer just yet.
Armando Broja’s loan from Chelsea to Roma has been discussed, but the Blues are unwilling to let the striker leave the team.
The 21-year-old has been sidelined since the end of 2022 due to a major knee injury, but he is very close to finishing his recovery and could return to the field by next month.
It is a little surprising that Roma would want to sign him to a short-term contract given how long he has been sidelined and how unfit he still is, but according to Sky Sports, the Italians have spoken to the Blues about the potential of taking the Albanian on loan.
Chelsea, however, has rejected the Serie A team’s request to sign Broja, especially in light of Christopher Nkunku’s recent significant knee injury, which could keep him out until December.
AC Milan has also expressed interest in the teenage forward, but should they make a bid for him, they will face the same opposition as Roma.
With summer acquisition Nicolas Jackson starting the opening Premier League match of the year as Chelsea drew 1-1 with Liverpool, new Blues manager Mauricio Pochettino does not have an abundance of options for the central striker position.
While Pochettino has access to other forwards, they are either more at home out wide or deeper, while Romelu Lukaku is still with the team but is anticipated to leave before the transfer window shuts.
Jackson looked energetic throughout the entire game against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, but he missed one very fine opportunity.
Chelsea has reportedly accepted a permanent offer from Galatasaray for the marginalised Moroccan winger, as per reports by RMC Sport and Fabrizio Romano. However, both parties remain cautiously optimistic at this stage.
This hesitation is due to two previously unsuccessful attempts to secure moves for Ziyech earlier this year.
In January, a potential loan transfer to Paris Saint-Germain collapsed due to Chelsea’s failure to submit the correct documentation within the stipulated timeframe.
During the current summer, the 30-year-old’s anticipated move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, reportedly fell through due to his inability to pass a medical examination due to a knee injury.
Ziyech made his way to Chelsea in a transfer worth £33 million ($43 million) from Ajax in 2020, yet he has not truly found his footing at Stamford Bridge.
Should Ziyech successfully clear his medical examination at Galatasaray, he will join the likes of Dries Mertens, Wilfried Zaha, and Mauro Icardi in Istanbul.
Chelsea have reportedly activated the £35 million ($44.5 million) release clause in Michael Olise’s existing contract with Crystal Palace.
Throughout the summer, Chelsea has displayed interest in the French Under-21 international, and they have been competing with Manchester City for the midfielder’s signature.
Initially, reports from the Evening Standard indicated a proposed fee of £45 million ($57 million), but now, as per The Athletic, Chelsea has triggered Palace’s £35 million ($44.5 million) release clause.
Even after confirming Moises Caicedo’s transfer from Brighton recently, Chelsea’s reconstruction efforts seem to be continuing without pause. Additionally, there are indications that Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia is poised to follow the Ecuadorian midfielder in joining the club.
Further transfer activity could occur in west Londonas Todd Boehly continues to reshape the composition of the Blues’ squad.
The 28-year-old is set to step in for Thibaut Courtois, who sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee during a training session last Thursday, leading to several months of absence.
As Moises Caicedo gets ready to join Chelsea in a groundbreaking British record transfer, reports suggest that Liverpool will eventually come to an agreement with Southampton regarding Romeo Lavia’s transfer.
During the intense competition to acquire Caicedo, Liverpool presented a bid of £111 million, leading to Southampton’s young talent Lavia’s situation being somewhat overlooked.
Chelsea’s sudden surge of interest in the 19-year-old seemed to be more of a strategic move as they competed with other Premier League competitors to secure his signature.
Chelsea has now reportedly reached a £115 million deal with Brighton for Caicedo, leaving Liverpool with a more pressing need for a defensive midfielder.
Despite three prior rejected bids for Lavia, Liverpool has entered into a competition with Chelsea for the services of the Belgian international.
According to Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian, Liverpool has now reached an agreement with Southampton worth £60 million.
However, it remains to be seen whether they can convince Lavia to move to Anfield, with “indications [he] favours a move to Chelsea.”
Chelsea bid £55 million for the teenager last week, and it was previously claimed that they would look to sign both Lavia and Caicedo, though Steinberg added on Twitter that Liverpool are the only club with an agreement with Southampton.
Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri has corroborated Steinberg’s report, explaining that “things could develop quickly, but it’s not over yet.”
Farcically, it seems the club will now need to spend more than they would have hoped on the teenager following Chelsea‘s offer.
Liverpool had attempted to negotiate with Southampton below their £50 million price tag with bids of £37 million, £41 million, and £46 million.
That was the source of frustration among supporters, as the Reds were perceived to be haggling for a player who would have benefited from a longer bedding-in period.
While Southampton had publicly sought £50 million, there were hints that they could eventually agree a deal below that—until, it seems, the battle for Caicedo.
Not only did Liverpool show their hand with a potential British-record bid for the Ecuadorian, but in failing to sign him, they also became more vulnerable in the market.
Mauricio Pochettino asserts that he is embarking on a remarkable journey with Chelsea, expressing this sentiment following his inaugural Premier League match in charge. The game ended in a 1-1 draw against Liverpool.
Although the home team initially conceded a goal at Stamford Bridge, Axel Disasi managed to equalise for Chelsea on his debut, securing them a point from their first match of the season.
When asked by the BBC’s Match of the Day whether a draw was a fair result, Pochettino replied: ‘I don’t believe it is. I think we deserved a little bit more overall.
“We feel pleased, but at the same time disappointed because we wanted to win and we deserved to win, but it is only the beginning.
We’ve established an excellent working approach here, which holds significant importance. It revolves around belief, diligent effort, and mutual trust. The connection we’ve forged from the very beginning has been exceptional.
‘The fans were always with us. Even in the difficult moments they were there, they never gave up and always believed in the team, and the teamfelt the energy from the crowd.
Chelsea have emerged victorious in the race to secure the services of Brighton midfielderMoises Caicedo in a record-breaking British transfer worth £115 million ($146 million).
The imminent completion of Caicedo’s transfer to the Blues is reported by The Athletic, with an agreement in place and a medical examination scheduled for Monday.
The deal will see Caicedo sign an extraordinary contract spanning eight years, with the option for an additional ninth year.
Following the medical, the official announcement of the transfer is anticipated.
This development signifies the impending conclusion of a transfer saga that has spanned the entire summer, with Chelsea ultimately emerging as the successful party.
Recent reports indicated that Caicedo was resolute in his decision to join Stamford Bridge, despite Liverpool’s substantial £110 million British record bid.
At long last, it appears that Chelsea’s pursuit of the player has borne fruit.
Furthermore, reports suggest that a sell-on clause has been agreed upon with Brighton, which acquired Caicedo for a mere £4.5 million in 2021.
This arrangement implies a substantial profit of over £110 million for Brighton from the sale of the Ecuadorian international.
This profit underscores the effectiveness of the club’s esteemed player recruitment and transfer strategy, promising future gains as well.
Chelsea’s interest in acquiring the promising talent of Michael Olise from fellow English Premier League contenderCrystal Palace persists.
Reports suggest that the club is contemplating facilitating a deal that would involve Callum Hudson-Odoi’s move to Crystal Palace, with the aim of securing Olise.
The rumours linking Chelsea to the potential signing of Michael Olise have been circulating since the commencement of the summer transfer window.
Despite the passage of several weeks, no concrete outcomes have emerged from the multitude of speculations and transfer narratives.
In a recent twist, sources have indicated that Chelsea is now exploring an alternative approach in their pursuit of bringing Michael Olise to Stamford Bridge.
There is a possibility that this strategy might entail including young talent like Callum Hudson-Odoi in an offer to Crystal Palace, supplemented by a cash component.
Anticipated to be presented to Crystal Palace within the week, this offer reflects Chelsea’s commitment to enhancing their squad.
Callum Hudson-Odoi, aged 22, seems to lack a foreseeable future at Chelsea. Notably, he is also a target for Fulham, an English Premier League team, although their initial bid was considered inadequate.
Chelsea is poised to make another significant investment in the transfer market by potentially setting a new British transfer record for the second time this year.
The club has reportedly put forth a proposal of £115 million to secure the services of Brighton midfielder Moisés Caicedo, as revealed by sources speaking to ESPN’s James Olley.
While the precise details of the arrangement are still under discussion, Chelsea has signalled its intention to surpass the £111 million offer that Liverpool presented to Brighton for Caicedo on Friday.
It’s been confirmed by sources that the 21-year-old midfielder has expressed his desire to join Stamford Bridge, even after Liverpool reached an agreement with Brighton.
After undergoing protracted negotiations with Brighton throughout the summer—seeing a series of bids turned down, with the most recent being £80 million—Chelsea is now on the verge of finalising a deal that, with potential add-ons, will exceed the £106.8 million they spent on Enzo Fernández from Benfica in January.
In addition to their pursuit of Caicedo, Chelsea is aiming to outpace Liverpool in securing another midfielder, Romeo Lavia, by initiating discussions with Southampton.
Despite Liverpool’s multiple offers, Southampton has rejected them all for the 19-year-old Lavia,but Chelsea appears ready to exceed his £50 million valuation.
As Chelsea and Liverpool prepare to begin their Premier League campaignsss this Sunday, Chelsea’s head coach acknowledged a particular aspect in which his counterpart surpasses him.
Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, addressed the press on Saturday evening in anticipation of their upcoming match against Liverpool.
Pochettino openly stated that he shares a positive rapport with Liverpool’s manager, Jurgen Klopp.
The Argentine manager went on to express admiration for Klopp’s adeptness at displaying his enthusiasm on the field, commending both his football philosophy and personality.
Pochettino said: “He is better than me at showing his personality! But yes, his passion is there. Yes, I love him. I love him in a good way. I want to beat him on Sunday, but I think it is going to be a good game, and for sure I am going to enjoy seeing him again.
He added: “I enjoy his philosophy for football, how he is, and his character. I like how he is a very warm person; he has his character, and I think his debut was against us at Tottenham.
“Yes, from there, we’ve had very good relations. We have some of the same friends who played for Southampton, like Adam Lallana, that creates a good link between us. A player that loves us and Jurgen. It is a good link, communication period between the coaching staff.”
“He is one of the best. He was so nice when I left Tottenham. One of the best messages. He’s doing a great job with Liverpool.
There are good and bad periods, but they really believe in him and give him the best tools to create a good team to fight for every title,” he said
Klopp has always been regarded as one of the best personalities in the game, with the German being lauded multiple times by Manchester City boss, Pep Guardiola as well as a lot of his former players. Pochettino’s comments just further cement his status.
The duo will clash on Sunday at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea play host to Liverpool at 4:30 p.m. British Standard Time (BST).
Chelsea will commence theirPremier League season without a front-of-shirt sponsor for the upcoming clash against Liverpool on Sunday.
Infinite Athlete, a tech company, is nearing an agreement to become Chelsea’s new shirt sponsor.
However, the contracts are not expected to be finalised in time for the American company’s logo to adorn the iconic blue shirts for Sunday’s highly anticipated match against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s prolonged quest for a primary shirt sponsor has unfolded as one of the unexpected narratives of the summer.
The club initially faced challenges due to Premier League regulations, followed by a backlash from fans, resulting in them releasing a new kit without the presence of a sponsor’s emblem on the front.
The nostalgic 1990s-inspired Chelsea kit garnered positive feedback, with the absence of a sponsor contributing to its retro appeal.
Despite the failure to secure a deal in time, the minimalist design of the kit will see official use in at least one match.
As the Blues take the field without a sponsor, they will strive to put their challenges from the previous season behind them in the marquee fixture of the opening weekend as they welcomeLiverpool to west London on Sunday afternoon.
Brighton’s manager, Roberto De Zerbi, indicated that he had moved on from midfielder Moises Caicedo after Liverpool’s manager, Jurgen Klopp, confirmed that an agreement had been reached for the Ecuadorian international.
Reportedly, the Seagulls have accepted a fee of £110 million ($140 million, 127 million euros), potentially setting a British record, for the 21-year-old player. Nevertheless, according to Sky Sports, Caicedo is yet to finalise his decision about his future, with Chelsea also displaying interest.
Brighton has followed a successful business model that involves signing lesser-known players and later selling them for substantial fees.
This approach has seen Argentina’s World Cup winner Alexis MacAllister move to Anfield earlier in this transfer window.
Additionally, players like Ben White and Leandro Trossard of Arsenal, Marc Cucurella of Chelsea, and Yves Bissouma of Tottenham have left Brighton for ‘larger’ Premier League clubs over the past two years.
But Seagulls boss De Zerbi, whose side start the new season at home to promoted Luton on Saturday in a campaign that will also include Europa League football, said Friday: “I’ve already forgotten Moises. I’m really proud of the players we have in the squad. We have to complete the squad.”
The Italian added: “We want to improve the squad because we lost Mac Allister, we lost (Levi) Colwill (on loan from Chelsea last season), and maybe we lose Caicedo.
“We have to be ready because when the players leave, it’s because they played well, but the credit is for the club, for the players, and for us, the coaches.
“The big clubs can buy the players, but they can’t buy our soul and our spirit. That’s not on the market, and this is more important than the players leaving.
Chelsea is contemplating the possibility of pursuing Verratti as an option, especially following their unsuccessful attempt to secure Moises Caicedo from Brighton, a deal that ultimately went to Liverpool, as reported by Footmercato.
Furthermore, Verratti has shifted his preference away from the Middle East and is now keen on remaining in Europe.
This change in stance has captured the interest of Chelsea, who are now displaying a keen desire to bring the seasoned midfielder on board to strengthen their midfield lineup.
An additional factor that makes Verratti an appealing prospect for the Blues is his familiarity with Mauricio Pochettino’s tactical strategies.
Pochettino is currently working on shaping a new-look midfield at Stamford Bridge, with Enzo Fernandez positioned as the central figure of this project.
Given this context, Verratti’s experience at the age of 30 could prove valuable, as it would provide valuable guidance for emerging talents like Connor Gallagher, Andre Santos, and Carney Chukwuemeka.
Having received information from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) that he does not figure into their plans for the upcoming season, Verratti is now free to explore new opportunities elsewhere.
This is evident from PSG’s decision to exclude him from open media day activities, alongside contract dispute-embroiled Kylian Mbappe and other players who are no longer part of their immediate plans.
It’s quite evident that Juventus fans are far from pleased with their club’s efforts to secure the services ofRomelu Lukaku from Chelsea.
The frustration among Juve supporters reached a boiling point at the Allianz Stadium, where a training match involving the first team and the reserve side turned into utter chaos.
The supporters used this opportunity to express their strong opposition to the potential acquisition of the 30-year-old striker, passionately chanting, “We don’t want Lukaku!”
Reportedly, the Belgian national player has come to terms on personal conditions with the Serie A side. This sets the stage for a potential transfer from Chelsea during this summer’s transfer window.
As part of this potential deal, Dusan Vlahovic is being suggested as a player who might move in the opposite direction from Juventus to Chelsea.
Romelu Lukaku is no stranger to Serie A, having previously played for Inter, the archrivals of Juventus, on two separate occasions.
In fact, during the 2020–21 season, he clinched the top scorer title while propelling Antonio Conte’s Nerazzurri squad to the championship.
Intriguingly, Juve’s most passionate fans, the ultras, have previously cautioned the clubagainst acquiring Lukaku.
The verdict on whether the Juventus leadership will persist in their pursuit of the former Manchester United player remains uncertain.
However, reports indicate that Chelsea has no interest in securing Dusan Vlahovic as part of the deal.
With the potential for further unrest and the additional complication of the club’s ongoing exclusion from European competitions this season, Juventus finds itself in the midst of considerable turmoil.
Premier League club, Fulham, is nearing an agreement withChelsea FC regarding the transfer of forward Callum Hudson-Odoi.
As reported by Sky Sport, the agreement is anticipated to be finalized within the next 48 hours, and it appears that there are no concerns regarding the player’s personal terms.
In the final year of his Chelsea contract, Hudson-Odoi is not included in coach Mauricio Pochettino’s strategies for the upcoming 2023–24 season.
Experiencing reduced playing minutes, the English-born Ghanaian spent the latter part of the previous season on loan at the German team Bayer Leverkusen, featuring in just 14 matches for the Black and Reds.
Hudson-Odoi, 22, remains eligible to represent Ghana internationally despite playing for England at the youth level from U16 to U21 and also making three appearances at the senior level.
Moises Caicedo, the midfielder who has attracted interest from Chelsea and holds a valuation of 100 million Euros, might not be swiftly departing from his current club, Brighton and Hove Albion, according toformer manager Chris Hughton.
The 64-year-old Hughton commented that the Seagulls have been making impressive moves in the ongoing transfer market, even though they recently bid farewell to Alexis MacAllister for 42 million Euros and Robert Sanchez to Chelsea for 23 million Euros.
In contrast, Brighton has made significant acquisitions, including Jao Pedro for 32 million Euros, Bart Verbruggen from Anderlecht for 20 million Euros, and Brazilian defender Igor from Fiorentina for 17 million Euros.
Hughton, speaking on TalkSport, expressed that in his tenure, the club might have allowed Moises Caicedo to depart, but under the current direction, Brighton is not eager to part ways with the Ecuadorian midfielder.
“Brighton as a club at this moment has done incredibly good business and I would imagine they are not desperate to sell”.
“I think the circumstances have changed because the Brighton I know a few years ago would have accepted this offer. But they are in a very good position and I think they will sell when the value is correct”, he added.
Caicedo had a standout 2022–23 season, helping Brighton and Hove qualify for the European Europa League for the first time after placing sixth the previous year. Brighton & Hove will be eager to keep him.
On Thursday, September 7, 2023, when the Black Stars host Central Africa Republic in the last Group E match at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Chris Hughton is predicted to secure Ghana’s spot in the 2023 AFCON.
Ross Barkley has joined newly promotedPremier League team Luton Town on a free transfer, after being released by Ligue 1 side Nice.
The Hatters have snapped up the former Chelsea man ahead of their Premier League opener against Brighton this weekend on a free transfer. The length of his contract hasn’t been disclosed.
On joining the club, Barkley said: “Why Luton? Going from the Conference to the Premier League is a great story, and for me personally, being back in the Premier League, is great motivation.
“I’m still relatively young, and over the last couple of years, I’ve not played as much as I’d have liked. But I’ve reserved a lot of energy and looked after myself, so it’s great to be here now as I’ve got a lot to show, but I’m ready and feeling motivated.”
Luton Town has secured the services of the former Chelsea player just in time for their Premier League debut against Brighton this upcoming weekend.
Ross Barkley has joined theteam on a free transfer, although the specific length of his contract has not been revealed.
Chelsea’s forward Christopher Nkunku is facing an extended period on the sidelines as he is reportedly preparing to undergo knee surgery due to meniscus damage.
During Chelsea’s final pre-season match against Borussia Dortmund in Chicago, the French international had to be substituted off in the 22nd minute following a challenge from Mat Hummels.
Initially, there were expectations that the £58 million ($73.9 million) summer signing from RB Leipzig would only be absent for a few weeks due to meniscus damage in his left knee.
However, recent reports from The Guardian’s Jacob Steinberg suggest that Nkunku will require knee surgery, which will significantly delay his competitive debut for Chelsea in the new season.
While his absence is a setback for manager Mauricio Pochettino, the 25-year-old’s impressive start with Chelsea has been promising. His inability to participate raises concerns about the team’s attacking options.
Nkunku’s extended absence adds pressure on Todd Boehly’s team to strengthen their attacking midfield and second striker positions.
The club has been linked with Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise, a winger who can also play in the attacking midfield role.
Additionally, there have been rumours of interest in Neymar, who reportedly expressed a desire to leave Paris Saint-Germain.
Given Chelsea’s modest goal tally of 38 in 38 matches last season, bolstering their attacking options is crucial to mounting a more successful campaign this time and contending for a top-four position.
Chelsea is set to commence their 2023–24 league season at home against Liverpool under theguidance of Jurgen Klopp.
The hope is that Nkunku’s return to the first team will be expedited as they aim to compete effectively.
Amid swirling transfer rumours connecting Neymar to Barcelona and Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has reportedly established a minimum price tag for the Brazilian superstar.
After a six-year tenure with PSG, Neymar is said to be seeking a departure from Paris.
Barcelona, the reigning Spanish champions, and Premier League heavyweights Chelsea have emerged as potential landing spots should Neymar decide to leave PSG.
According to Sky Sports, PSG is open to considering offers ranging from £50 million ($63.74 million) to £80 million ($102 million) for Neymar.
With the aim of embarking on a new chapter in their pursuit of success, PSG has witnessed Lionel Messi relocate to the United States, and both Kylian Mbappe and Neymar have been listed for potential transfers.
In line with their objective to assemble a youthful team, PSG has already secured the signature of Portuguese striker Goncalo Ramos from Benfica.
Furthermore, they are nearing the finalisation of a transfer deal with Ousmane Dembele from Barcelona and continue to express interest in securing the services of Eintracht Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani.
It appears that PSG envisions a revamped attacking lineup for the upcoming 2023–24 season. Nevertheless, the task of offloading Neymar might prove challenging due to the limited number of potential suitors.
Reportedly, Chelsea’s manager, Mauricio Pochettino, is not interested in bringing Neymar to Stamford Bridge. Meanwhile, Barcelona has reportedly declined the opportunity to take Neymar on loan, even with Ousmane Dembele being suggested as part of the exchange.
Adding to the complexity, Neymar’s father has dismissed claims that his son is inclined to depart from PSG during this summer transfer window.
Reports suggest that, Mauricio Pochettino is not inclined to reunite with Paris Saint-Germain’s forwardNeymar at Chelsea.
According to French outlet L’Equipe, the Brazilian superstar is seeking an exit from the Parc des Princes.
Following this, several top European clubs, including Chelsea, have been linked with Neymar.
However, as per the Evening Standard, the manager of Chelsea is uninterested in adding the 31-year-old player to his squad.
Pochettino had previously collaborated with Neymar during his one-year tenure at PSG in the 2021-22 season.
It appears that the Argentine manager is uncertain whether the forward aligns with the style of play he intends to establish at Chelsea, hence, he is not in favour of the club pursuing Neymar’s services.
Chelsea is presently undergoing a comprehensive squad transformation under Pochettino’s direction, shifting their focus to potential rising stars like Moises Caicedo instead of established names.
Sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley are in agreement with Pochettino’s vision and also concur that Neymar is not a viable option for Chelsea.
Neymar may continue with PSG for the immediate future, as his father, who is also his agent, has asserted that his son’s destiny lies in Paris, and has criticised reports of a transfer request.
Should he decide to stay at PSG, the winger is expected to return to action in theLigue 1 opener against Lorient on Saturday.
Brighton appears to be on the verge of outpacing Arsenal and Chelsea in securing the signing of Ajax winger Mohammed Kudus.
The 23-year-old Ghanaian talent has swiftly garnered recognition as one of global football’s most promising attacking prospects, impressing both at Ajax and on the international stage.
Reportedly turning down a contract extension offer from his current club in April, Arsenal and Chelsea have both been vying to entice Kudus to London.
Yet, according to David Ornstein from The Athletic, it’s Brighton that has now taken the lead, having agreed upon a £34.5 million transfer fee to bring him to the Amex Stadium.
Discussions between the player and the club are currently underway, aiming to finalize what could be a standout addition to Roberto De Zerbi’s squad, which is set to compete in the Europa League.
Kudus, who is also versatile enough to play as an attacking midfielder or a central striker, impressively netted 18 goals across 42 matches for Ajax in the previous season, including four goals in six Champions League appearances.
Kudus also received praise for his performances at the Qatar World Cup, notably scoring two goals in Ghana’s thrilling 3-2 victory over South Korea.
His current manager, Maurice Steijn, recently shared his perspective on Kudus’ future, advising the young talent to remain with the team.
Steijn said: “I feel that when Kudus decides to stay for one more year, the real top clubs will then come for him.
“If we win the league and he scores 20 goals, clubs will pay double for him. This is what we are trying to tell him now.”
However, the 49-year-old’s plea appears to have fallen on deaf ears.
Chelsea Football Club has finalized the acquisition of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez from Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Spanish international, boasting 87 Premier League appearances, has officially penned a seven-year deal at Stamford Bridge. He is set to imminently integrate into the first-team roster at Cobham.
Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart said: ‘We’re very pleased to welcome Robert to Chelsea and he adds further quality to our goalkeeping unit.
‘Robert has repeatedly proved himself in the Premier League and been capped by his country. We are excited to watch him work with Mauricio and his coaching team during the season ahead.’
Sanchez embarked on his journey from his native country to join Brighton at the tender age of 15, progressing through the club’s youth system. Notably, he experienced fruitful loan stints at Forest Green Rovers and Rochdale before cementing his status as Brighton’s primary goalkeeper during the 2020/21 season.
At 25 years old, Sanchez swiftly garnered acclaim in the Premier League, gaining recognition for his adept shot-stopping abilities and his proficiency in orchestrating possession and initiating attacks.
Throughout the 2021/22 season, which marked his inaugural full term as Brighton’s top-choice goalkeeper, Sanchez’s performances contributed to the team achieving a club-record of 11 clean sheets in a single Premier League campaign.
During that same season, he earned his inaugural cap for the Spanish national team, featuring in a 4-0 victory over Georgia in a World Cup qualifying match. Notably, he secured spots in the rosters for both Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup.
In the preceding season, Sanchez played an instrumental role in guiding Brighton to the semi-finals of the FA Cup. His commendable efforts led to clean sheets in the quarter-finals and the semi-finals, although the latter concluded in a penalty shootout loss to Manchester United. This match marked his 91st and final appearance for Brighton.
Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka has not ruled out the possibility of playing international football for the Super Eagles in the future. However, he emphasized that his current focus is on representing England.
Born in Austria to Nigerian parents but raised in England, Chukwuemeka is eligible to play for Nigeria, Austria, and England.
Having begun his international career with England’s U18s and progressing to the U20s, the Aston Villa academy product was recently named in the Young Lions’ FIFA U20 World Cup squad, making one appearance in the competition.
When asked about the prospect of playing for the Super Eagles, he stated, “I haven’t really thought that far. At the minute, I’m focused on England. Obviously, I’ve played for England at youth level, so we’ll see what the future holds,” as quoted by Football London.
Chukwuemeka showcased his talents during Chelsea’s pre-season games, providing one assist in the club’s 5-0 victory over Wrexham. Despite struggling for game time last season with just two Premier League starts, he hopes to receive more opportunities under his new manager Mauricio Pochettino in the upcoming season.
Chelsea summer arrival Christopher Nkunku suffered a knee injury as his side struck late to ensure a 1-1 draw with Borussia Dortmund at Soldier Field on Thursday in the final match of their U.S. preseason tour.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side dominated possession for much of the game in Chicago, but it was Dortmund right-back Marius Wolf who finally broke the deadlock with a volley on 80 minutes, although teenage Chelsea forward Mason Burstow nodded home shortly before stoppage-time to level the scores.
Pochettino admitted the pitch quality at at Soldier Field drew attention “wasn’t perfect,” with the stadium having hosted an Ed Sheeran concert at the weekend.
Soldier Field has a capacity of 61,500 but a record 73,000 turned up for the concert which had fans on the pitch surrounding the stage.
Nkunku went down clutching his leg after a challenge in the ninth minute, although Pochettino refused to blame the pitch.
“We took some risks because the pitch is not perfect. The facilities are used for a different sport and that is sometimes the risk of the tour,” Pochettino said.
“We won’t blame the pitch for the injury though. For me, it was bad luck.”
Nkunku came off midway through the first half in discomfort and was later seen with an ice-pack strapped to his knee.
“The doctors are checking him and I hope it is not a big issue. He fell in the action which was maybe a penalty and he feels something in his knee, but we hope it is nothing big,” Pochettino said.
Mauricio Pochettino’s decisions during Chelsea’s final match of their US pre-season tour against Borussia Dortmund provided fans with insights ahead of the upcoming season.
Pochettino opted for a strong starting XI against the German club, resulting in a closely contested match where both teams held their ground.
The balance was eventually disrupted when Marius Wolf capitalized on a scramble within the 18-yard box, netting a goal after Kepa Arrizabalaga cleared a corner.
Young striker Mason Burstow made his mark by equalizing for Chelsea in the 89th minute, securing his first senior goal and concluding the Blues’ pre-season tour without a defeat for the first time since 2012.
Pochettino drops XI hint
Pochettino confirmed to the media that the starting 11 yesterday could be on the field when the team line up against Liverpool in the season’s opening game.
“This was about giving 90 minutes to the team in my head that I plan to play because the season is only 10 days away,” he said via Sun Sport.
Many factors could influence the XI’s choice, including new signings and injuries, as new winger Christopher Nkunku limped off injured in 20 minutes.
Evening Standard reported that Poch did not give full details and only hoped it was not serious.
The Athletic reported that the Blues have agreed to a £25m deal plus add-ons for Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, which could also influence the choice of the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Fans also got a hint that Reece James has possibly been named the next captain after wearing the armband while Thiago Silva was on the pitch.
Both players left the pitch in the 73rd minute for Bashir Humphreys and Malo Gusto.
James hints he’s next captain
Sports Brief reported that Reece James dropped a hint he is the next skipper after uploading a video on social media detailing his journey at the club from the academy days till the point he wore the armband in pre-season.
The academy star lifted the PL Summer Series trophy alongside Silva and yet again shared a message to fans in what could be described as his first as captain.
Reports indicate thatRomelu Lukaku has allegedly agreed to a three-year contract with Juventus, pending the outcome of Dusan Vlahovic’s potential transfer to Chelsea.
Juventus, the Serie A giants, have a strong interest in acquiring the services of the Belgian striker.
Yet, this move is contingent upon Vlahovic’s departure from Juventus.
As per Di Marzio, the two clubs are actively engaged in discussions to orchestrate a swap deal that would involve the exchange of these two forwards.
Meanwhile, Lukaku has already reached an agreement on personal terms with the Bianconeri.
He is poised to sign a three-year contract, inclusive of an option for an additional year.
Chelsea has set their sights on Vlahovic as a valuable addition to enhance their attacking options.
However, they are hesitant to meet the €50 million (£43m/$54.60m) asking price.
Conversely, Juventus seems open to negotiation and may accept a reduced fee of €40m (£34.5m/$43.69m), given their eagerness to finalize the arrangement.
Juventus aims to address their financial situation and seeks to maximize their gains by selling Vlahovic.
Coach Massimiliano Allegri acknowledged that the deal’s completion is intertwined with the club’s financial considerations.
Ongoing negotiations between the two clubs are striving to bring Lukaku to Turin and secureVlahovic’s shift to Chelsea.
Yet, Lukaku has recently appeared to downplay suggestions of his imminent move to Turin, fueling further speculation about his future.
Personal terms have been reachedbetween Romelu Lukaku and Juventus, as reported by Sky Italia. However, the Belgium striker’s move to Juventus hinges on Chelsea’s approval.
Lukaku, at 30 years old, has agreed to a three-year contract with the Italian club, which includes an option for a further season.
Juventus has put forth a proposal: they are willing to take Lukaku this summer if Chelsea secures the signature of Juve striker Dusan Vlahovic and pays €40 million as part of the arrangement.
The Serbia international, Vlahovic, was acquired by Juve for €70 million from Fiorentina in January 2022.
However, the 23-year-old has struggled to replicate his prolific goal-scoring form under the management of Massimiliano Allegri.
Lukaku, who joined Chelsea from Inter Milan for €115 million in 2021, experienced a less-than-ideal 2022-23 season while on loan at the Italian club. He purportedly declined a permanent return to Inter and is considering an offer toplay in Saudi Arabia.
Ajax, the prominent Dutch team, remains optimistic about retaining the services of Ghanaian talent Mohammed Kudusfor another season.
Recent reports from Footballghana have highlighted that several European clubs are vying to secure Mohammed Kudus as a transfer target.
Notably, English Premier League outfit Chelsea seems to be leading the pursuit to acquire the skilled attacker.
While acknowledging the possibility of Mohammed Kudus departing before the summer transfer window closes, Ajax officials have expressed their desire for the player to remain with the club for an additional season.
In the past day, sources have revealed ongoing discussions between the Eredivisie powerhouse and representatives of the Black Stars forward.
These talks are aimed at persuading Kudus to dedicate the upcoming football season to Ajax in the Netherlands.
Sources suggest that Kudus is not feeling rushed and is committed to performing at his best for Ajax in case a transfer doesn’t materialize this summer.
Chelsea is reportedly open to a swap deal that would send Romelu Lukaku to Juventus in exchange for Dusan Vlahovic heading to Stamford Bridge.
According to Sky Sports Italia, Juventus is the only club currently showing interest in the 30-year-old striker, as his potential return to Internazionale has been ruled out.
Lukaku spent last season on loan at Inter, but with their interest withdrawn, he is now uncertain about his future.
While there have been some interests from Saudi clubs, Lukaku is said to be keen on returning to Serie A.
Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has been impressed with Dusan Vlahovic’s performances, as the 23-year-old Serbian forward netted 14 goals for Juventus during the 2022-23 season.
Victor Osimhen is on the verge of signing a new contract with Napoli, which will likely dash the hopes of Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain in acquiring the striker.
According to Sky Italia, Napoli and Osimhen, represented by his agent Roberto Calenda, have made significant progress in finalizing the new contract.
However, negotiations have revolved around the release clause, with the club seeking around €200 million (£171m/$219m) while Osimhen’s representatives are pushing for a lower fee, possibly around €150 million (£128m/$164m).
The Nigerian forward’s current contract with Napoli is set to expire in 2025, and it’s believed that he will commit to at least one more season under the current deal.
Talks primarily focused on his wages and the release clause during discussions with Calenda, leading to increased optimism that Osimhen will soon sign the contract extension.
If the extension indeed materializes, it would mean Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain will have to explore alternative options as Napoli seems determined to keep hold of their prized striker.
Earlier, Calenda had dispelled reports of potential contract issues, and Napoli’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has consistently expressed confidence in retaining Osimhen despite interest from other top European clubs.
The striker was instrumental in their quest for the Scudetto last season as the 24-year-old scored 26 goals and provided four assists during the campaign.
It is undoubtedly a huge boost to their Serie A title-defence ambitions which they secured after an excruciating wait of 33 years.
Chelsea has reached an agreement with UEFA to pay 10 million euros (£8.57 million) after admitting to “incomplete financial reporting” during the Roman Abramovich era.
In May of the previous year, a new ownership group, led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, completed the takeover of the club from Abramovich.
The former owner faced sanctions due to his connections with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin.
The Boehly-led consortium proactively approached UEFA after taking over, and during their review, instances of partial financial information in historical transactions between 2012 and 2019 were detected.
These actions breached UEFA Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play regulations.
Additionally, Juventus has been banned from participating in the Europa Conference League this season due to financial irregularities.
A UEFA statement said: “Following its assessment, including the applicable statute of limitations, the CFCB (Club Financial Control Body) First Chamber entered into a settlement agreement with the club which has agreed to pay a financial contribution of 10million euros to fully resolve the reported matters.”
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is reportedly open to loaning Kylian Mbappe to a Premier League club, with both Manchester United and Chelsea showing interest.
The French World Cup winner has been the subject of intense transfer speculation since he revealed his decision not to extend his contract at PSG, which is set to expire in 2024.
While he has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, no deal has been finalized yet.
Amid the ongoing rumors, Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal made a staggering offer of €300 million for Mbappe’s transfer fee and a €700 million wage package.
However, Mbappe has rejected this proposal, expressing no interest in moving to the Middle East.
According to i news, PSG is now willing to entertain loan offers from English teams, provided they cover Mbappe’s substantial salary.
Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham have all reportedly inquired about the possibility of signing the forward on loan, making it financially viable for them without a transfer fee.
Additionally, Inter Milan from Serie A and Barcelona from La Liga have also shown interest in Mbappe.
PSG is keen to part ways with the player, as it is evident that he is no longer fully committed to the club’s cause.
Chelsea’s initial bid of €27.5 million (£24m/$30m) for striker Elye Wahi has been turned down by Montpellier, but the player is eager to join the London club.
Despite the rejection, Montpellier is reportedly open to further negotiations with Chelsea, indicating a potential opportunity for the deal to progress.
Wahi, who scored an impressive 19 goals in Ligue 1 last season, is enthusiastic about the prospect of moving to Chelsea.
However, there is competition from other clubs, including Atletico Madrid and Eintracht Frankfurt, who have also shown interest in the 20-year-old French striker, who has earned three caps for France’s U21 side.
Chelsea is actively seeking to secure the deal promptly, considering the player’s interest in moving to England.
The plan could involve loaning Wahi out for the 2023-24 season, possibly to Strasbourg, which is Chelsea’s new sister club.
Given the high level of interest in Wahi,Chelsea will be keen to expedite the process and successfully finalize the transfer.
Mauricio Pochettino has expressed his belief that Reece James could become a future captain of Chelsea.
Following the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta to Atletico Madrid earlier this month, the club has yet to appoint a new skipper.
Pochettino mentioned ahead of tonight’s friendly against Newcastle in Atlanta that Reece James is among the potential candidates for the captaincy role.
“We are talking from day one about his objectives and how he was in the last few years at the club.
“He feels Chelsea, he came from the academy.
“He is one of the profiles, one of players that can be the present and future captain of the club.
“It’s good to have him back. He is a very important player for us.” James, 23, made only 24 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea last term with time spent on the sidelines to recover from both knee and hamstring issues.
The Cobham academy graduate was ruled out of England’s World Cup campaign in Qatar as a result.
But the highly-rated defender is now targeting a big season at club level, aiming to become a key performer for his Argentine boss. James explained: “It’s been difficult. Last season, I had a lot of injuries.
“I have not played in three months but at the moment it is good and I am finding my feet again.
“I am back into full training. I feel good. I am trying my best to stay on the field.
“We are working hard with the managing staff and physios to get me ready and be on the field in every game.
Romelu Lukaku has turned to iconic rapper DMX to express his anger about the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Despite expectations of his departure from Chelsea, the striker has not secured a move yet, as Inter’s interest has waned, and talks with Juventus have not yet led to a finalized deal.
The player’s frustration seems evident, and he is finding inspiration from the late and legendary DMX.
Romelu Lukaku, the striker from Chelsea, updated his Instagram biography with lyrics from DMX’s song “How’s It Goin’ Down,” sharing the message: “Respect is not expected but it’s given ’cause it’s real. Being neglected’s the norm, expect it, the deal.”
Following his loan spell at Inter last season, the Serie A club had hoped to secure Lukaku on a permanent basis.
However, it has been reported that the 30-year-old stopped responding to their phone calls.
Simultaneously, he initiated talks with Juventus for a potential transfer, causing displeasure and outrage among fans of both Inter and Juventus.
Lukaku has utilized social media in the past to respond to criticism, as evidenced by a cryptic message he posted on Instagram last week.
Conor Gallagher is currently under contractwith Chelsea for two more years, and Mauricio Pochettino considers him an integral part of the squad.
Meanwhile, West Ham has engaged in discussions with Scott McTominay, but a valuation gap exists between the Hammers and Manchester United.
Additionally, West Ham is actively pursuing James Ward-Prowse as they aim to secure two midfielders to fill the void left by Declan Rice’s departure.
Gallagher has two years remaining on his contract with Chelsea, and the club is reportedly open to extending his deal.
Any potential move would likely depend on Gallagher’s decision, and West Ham is considering whether to make an improved offer.
Currently, Gallagher is on Chelsea’s tour of the USA and recently scored a goal in their 4-3 victory against Brighton. As of now, Mauricio Pochettino is planning to include him in the squad for the upcoming season.
After Declan Rice’s departure to Arsenal for a hefty £105m, West Ham is actively exploring options for midfield reinforcements.Conor Gallagher is among the midfielders they are considering, but the club ideally aims to secure the signings of two replacements for the position.
On Saturday the Athletic reported that the 22-year-old has emerged as a target for Pochetinho’s side who are willing to make amends for their terrible showing last season.
However, they are also believed to be exploring options in Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise as well as French attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki.
While all three look promising, it is Kudus who may appear as an all-round footballer for the Blues given his versatility.
Here are five factors driving Chelsea to acquire the talented player.
Could be an option in central midfield
The first reason why Chelsea could double up their efforts for Mohammed Kudus is due to inadequate central midfielders.
The Blues lost Jorgingho and Kovacic to Arsenal and Manchester City respectively and are desperate to get experience in that position despite the presence of Andrey Santos and Cesare Casadei who are considered the future of the club.
In addition, Gallagher is expected to leave as he seems surplus to requirement per reports.
With respect to experience, Enzo remains the only notable central midfielder and would need others to complement his efforts.
Caicedo is expected to join Chelsea with agreement between the Blues and Brighton being the only stumbling block.
However, should that deal materialise, the Ecuadorian cannot pair with Enzo throughout the season considering possible injuries and the number of matches awaiting the London side in the upcoming season.
Kudus may not be a notable central midfielder but he has experience in playing more centrally having done so during his days at Nordjaelland while his ball-carrying strength and swift left foot gives him that advantage to maintain possession.
Can play all attacking roles
Kudus stands out among the other two options on Chelsea’s wishlist due to his exceptional flexibility. His ability to excel in various attacking positions, including center-forward, makes him a preferred choice. He has showcased his clinical finishing skills multiple times while playing in that role for Ajax, giving him a clear advantage over Olise and Cherki in the forward position.
Moreover, Kudus has also proven himself as a dynamic presence from the right flank on several occasions. Additionally, he can be an effective attacking midfielder, even though his passing abilities may not be as strong as his scoring prowess.
Depending on Pochettino’s instructions, the Ghanaian midfielder can be a significant force operating behind the striker. The potential departures of players like Mount and Havertz might influence Pochettino’s consideration to utilize Kudus in such a role.
Affordable and accessible now
Kudus is currently available for acquisition, and it is probable that he will still be available next year. However, the competition for his signature is likely to intensify as more clubs express interest in him.
If Kudus continues to impress with another standout season at Ajax, it may even lead to a bidding war among potential suitors. The multiple suggestions that he should move to the Bundesliga, Brighton and Hove Albion, or stay at Ajax to further develop indicate one thing: his value is on the rise.
To avoid potential future competition for his signing, Chelsea might be swift in their pursuit of Kudus. His current price tag for this summer is estimated at around £40 million, but if he joins another team in the future, his value is likely to be higher, provided he maintains his remarkable form.
Player’s zeal to move on
This summer appears to be the perfect time for Chelsea to make the move not only because of the price tag but also because of the player’s zeal to move on. A few months ago, his agent confirmed the rejection of a contract extension to stay for more years with the Dutch giants indicating his willingness to start a new chapter.
Anything can happen in the space of one season including changing his mind to extend his deal at Ajax or accept an offer elsewhere. Thankfully, other clubs who had initially shown interest have not really shown seriousness with Manchester United settling on Mount and Arsenal getting Havertz.
Played at the highest level
Kudus has experienced success both at the club and international level. His remarkable performances in the UEFA Champions League saw him score four goals in six group matches, including impressive goals against Napoli and Liverpool.
Representing Ghana at the World Cup, Kudus showcased his prowess by scoring two crucial goals that helped propel his team to their only win in the tournament. Additionally, he provided an assist for their first goal against Portugal. Even in their last group game, Kudus’ adventurous play won Ghana a penalty, although it was eventually missed against Uruguay.
Despite doubts raised about the challenges of the Premier League and how players from different environments may struggle to adapt, Chelsea can find comfort in Kudus’ ability to shine on the grandest stages of football. His track record of performing well in high-pressure situations could be an asset for the club.
Chelsea is reportedly willing to offload midfielder Conor Gallagher this summer, as they have received interest from both Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United for the England international.
Tottenham, in particular, is in need of homegrown players and might be considering Gallagher as a potential replacement in case Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg departs for Atletico Madrid.
West Ham, on the other hand, has a significant budget of around £105 million ($134 million) after selling Declan Rice to Arsenal, making them potential contenders for Gallagher’s signature.
It’s worth noting that the 23-year-old midfielder has previously been linked with a move to Newcastle.
Chelsea, on their part, are looking to strengthen their midfield and have been linked with Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus and Brighton’s Moises Caicedo.
As a result, they are willing to part ways with Gallagher, who is open to a move to secure regular playing time.
The player is yet to receive a new contract offer and currently has two years remaining on his existing deal with Chelsea.
It is not clear how much Gallagher would cost but he is now an established Premier League midfielder, becoming a key player during a loan at Crystal Palace in which he played 39 times and scored eight goals.
He made 35 appearances for the Blues last term, scoring three times.
Gallagher will hope to finalise any move before the start of the 2023-24Premier League season.
Mauricio Pochettino is facing concerns at the center-back position due to Wesley Fofana’s latest long-term injury.
Fofana, who is 22 years old, previously missed four months of action last season due to a knee problem and is now expected to be sidelined for a significant part of the 2023-24 campaign after rupturing his ACL.
Despite inheriting a bloated squad at Stamford Bridge, the former Tottenham boss is now facing a shortage in defense with the recent departures of Kalidou Koulibaly and Cesar Azpilicueta.
As Chelsea prepares for a pre-season clash against Brighton in Philadelphia on Saturday night, Pochettino must carefully assess the defensive options currently available to him.
Thiago Silva
Thiago Silva may be approaching his 39th birthday but age is yet to slow down the Brazilian veteran.
As well as his commanding physical presence, the Champions League winner is a master in possession and ranked inside the Premier League’s top 10 centre-backs for touches, completed passes and passing accuracy last term.
With long-term skipper Azpilicueta having departed for Atletico Madrid earlier this month, Silva looks a leading contender to take the captain’s armband.
Levi Colwill Levi Colwill has yet to make his senior Chelsea debut but could yet end up being a key player for the Blues in 2023-24.
Having impressed on loan at Brighton last term, the 20-year-old then starred in England’s European Under-21 Championship win this summer, raising his stock significantly.
Reports suggest the Seagulls hope to sign the youngster permanently, meaning Pochettino must swiftly decide if Colwill is ready for a spot in his starting line-up.
Another man who may benefit from Fofana’s misfortune is Trevoh Chalobah.
The Cobham academy graduate, now 24, played 33 times in all competitions last season but was widely expected to leave West London this summer.
However, a combination of injuries and exits mean the former Ipswich and Huddersfield loanee is likely to stick at his boyhood club a little longer yet.
Trevoh Chalobah captained Chelsea during their 5-0 pre-season win over Wrexham
Plenty of new faces failed to hit the ground running at Stamford Bridge last season but Benoit Badiashile bucked the trend.
The two-cap France international, 22, caught the eye in his limited outings, with Chelsea only suffering defeat in two of the 11 games the ex-Monaco man featured in.
Though Badiashile is missing the pre-season tour of America due to a hamstring injury sustained last season, he looks certain to be a regular once back fit.
Marc Cucurella endured a challenging first season in the capital following his £62million arrival from Brighton.
Unable to replicate the fine performances he delivered for the Seagulls on a regular basis, the Spaniard still has to win over the Blues fanbase but insists he has no intention of leaving just yet.
Primarily a full-back, Cucurella is also adept at playing on the left of a back three if the Argentine opts for a change of shape.
Reece James had an injury-disrupted campaign at Chelsea last term If there is one player Chelsea can always rely on to perform, it is fan favourite Reece James.
The England ace, 23, is one of the first names on the team sheet and showcased his impressive versatility once again in 2022-23 despite being ravaged by knee and hamstring injuries.
Gifted with elite athleticism and technical ability, the Londoner can easily fill in centrally in a back four or five whenever required.
Cucurella accepts that the Blues endured a difficult season, in which the club finished 12th in the Premier League, and he has confirmed his desire to stay under new manager Mauricio Pochettino while urging former Brighton team-mate Caicedo to join him.
Chelsea have seen a £70m ($90m) bid for the midfielder rejected this week.
Per the London Evening Standard, Cucurella said: “Yes, for sure I want to stay at Chelsea. I am very happy here.
“It wasn’t an easy season and it was difficult for all the players, we needed time to adapt. You arrive at a big club, you need time to adapt, the results don’t arrive, you feel more pressure and, of course, we are footballer players but we are normal people as well. “We have problems in our personal lives and people need to understand this as well. This is part of life and these things can improve in the future. I am very happy, I have a lot of energy and I am happy to stay here and do my best for this team and club.”
Asked about Caicedo, he said: “I’ve read in the media that he wants to come here a lot of times!“I have a good relationship with him. He is a top player and if he came here I think we would have a top midfielder for a long time.”
Cucurella endured a tough season along with Chelsea, as he was limited to 21 starts in the top-flight and missed the final eight games of the campaign through injury.
Chelsea face Brighton on Sunday in their next pre-season friendly, having beaten Wrexham 5-0 this week.
Joao Felix has seen the plaque bearing his name at Wanda Metropolitano vandalised following his Barcelona “dream” transfer admission.
The Portugal international forward has incurred the wrath of Rojiblancos supporters after telling Fabrizo Romano: “I’d love to play for Barca.
” Barcelona has always been my first choice and I’d love to join Barca. It was always my dream since I was a kid. If it happens, it will be a dream come true for me.”
Those words have not gone down well in the Spanish capital, with Atletico followers making their feelings clear by striking a crossthrough Felix’s name outside their stadium.
They have also etched the words “going/go to Barca” and “wh*re” around a commemorative plaque.
Plaque
Any player that makes more than 100 appearances for Atletico receives a plaque. Felix is not the first to see his vandalised, with Antoine Griezmann receiving similar treatment following his 2019 transfer to Barcelona, while Thibaut Courtois angered supporters of his former club when saying that current employers Real Madrid are the bigger team.
It remains to be seen whether Felix gets his dream move to Barcelona, with financial struggles at Camp Nou making it difficult for them to put deals in place.
The 23-year-old, who has taken in 131 appearances for Atletico, spent the second-half of the 2022-23 campaign on loan at Premier League giants Chelsea.
Chelsea manager and former coach of Dele Alli at Tottenham, Mauricio Pochettino, admitted that he couldn’t bring himself to watch the entire emotional interview between Alli and Gary Neville.
Alli recently opened up about being sexually abused at the age of six, engaging in drug dealing just two years later, battling a sleeping pill addiction, and his recent completion of rehab to address mental health challenges.
Pochettino intends to meet with Alli after Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States to offer support and discuss the situation.
In an exclusive chat with ESPN, the 51-year-old Argentinian said: “Of course, it was really tough for me to see him. I didn’t finish the interview because it was so painful.
“He knows how we [Pochettino and his coaching staff] love him, how important he is for us as a person.
“Like a player, he was amazing. But like a person, he has a big, big heart. And of course, we are in contact.
“After the USA tour I hope to see him in London, to meet him and give him a big hug.
“Always, it is tough when you love a person but they show in an interview like this, it is really, really painful.
“But he is a strong, unbelievable guy and for sure he will become stronger.”
As Chelsea prepare for thier first pre-season game tonight against League Two newcomers Wrexham in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Pochettino is likely to see more players head for the exit.
Star names including Mason Mount, N’Golo Kante, Kai Havertz and Mateo Kovacic have already departed this summer as the Blues look to erase the memory of a dismal 2022-23 campaign.
“I think in between the club and the player, they share the same similar ideas and we are working on that to try to fix it and have the best solution for both parties.”
Following the devastating anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered by his Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana, Reece James took to social media to express his heartfelt message of support.
The French center-back recently underwent surgery for the injury, which will keep him sidelined for a significant period.
Fofana has faced challenges settling in at Stamford Bridge since his transfer from Leicester City, having made only 15 Premier League appearances last season due to a knee injury that required extensive medical attention from the club’s staff.
Fellow team-mate, James, shared an Instagram story showing support for Fofana along with a caption that read: “I’m with you brother. I know you’ll be back stronger.”
Chelsea will begin their pre-season campaign with a friendly against Wrexham on Wednesday at the Kenan Memorial Stadium located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
The tour will serve as valuable preparation for the upcoming season, as Pochettino aims to revive the fallen Blues side.
However, there are still some areas where the squad requires strengthening.
Negotiations with Brighton and Hove Albion are underway regarding a potential transfer for Moises Caicedo, as Chelsea seeks to address deficiencies in key positions.
The departure of several midfielders this summer has created an urgent need for reinforcements in that area.
Romelu Lukaku, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Hakim Ziyech and Callum Hudson-Odoi have all been left at home.
Lukaku has been involved in a transfer saga after Inter Milan pulled out of a deal to sign him permanently after Juventus reportedly entered the race, while Aubameyang is said to have agreed terms with French club Marseille, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
Reece James is the standout omission from Chelsea’s squad, with the website indicating that the right-back pulled out as a precaution.
The England international complained of illness on the morning of departure and will link with the rest of the team once he feels better.
Defenders Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile have also been left as they continue to nurse knee injuries.
Reserve goalkeeper Marcus Betinelli and striker Armando Broja also did not make the cut as they step up their own individual recovery programs.
Prospective captain Thiago Silva leads the squad with new signings Cristopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson and Malo Gusto in line for debuts.
Full squad
Goalkeepers: Kepa Arrizabalaga, Gabriel Slonina, Eddie Beach, Jamie Cummming, Lucas Bergstrom,
Defenders: Thiago Silva, Malo Gusto, Alfie Gilchrist, Bashir Humphreys,Ben Chilwell, Marc Cucurella, Ian Maatsen, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill
Midfielders: Conor Gallagher, Enzo Fernandez, Andrey Santos, Cesare Casadei, Carney Chukwuemeka, Lewis Hall
Forwards. Nicolas Jackson, Raheem Sterling, Noni Madueke, Mykhailo Mudryk, Christopher Nkunku, Mason Burstow, Diego Moreira, Angelo Gabriel, Dujan Richards (training only)
Pochettino to name new Chelsea captain
Sports Brief also reported that with numerous exits already witnessed and more players expected to follow in the summer, Pochettino will be required to come up with a new captaincy pool.
Thiago Silva is the strong favourite to take over captaincy duties on a full-time basis. The veteran Brazilian centre-back is still going strong as he gets into the final year of his Chelsea contract.
Other candidates include academy graduate Reece James, goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga – who has worn the armband before – and Raheem Sterling, who was one of the captains at his former club, Manchester City.
Striker Romelu Lukaku, who is currently linked with a move toSerie A rivals Juventus, has received strong criticism from a group of Inter “ultra” supporters known as the Curva Nord.
The group released a statement on Instagram expressing their disapproval of Lukaku as he negotiates a potential deal with Juventus.
Lukaku, who is currently under contract with Chelsea after a loan spell at Inter, is widely expected to make a move during the upcoming summer transfer window.
“We will never see you again from now on Lukaku,” said the ultras. “You have betrayed us all. We’ve always stood up for you in tough times, now you’re stabbing us in the back.
You sell yourself to the highest bidder after kissing our badge as a cheap mercenary. Before you can be a champion you have to be a man and you’re not one.”
Lukaku first joined Inter in 2019 from Manchester United for a club record £75 million ($98m) fee and enjoyed a stellar two seasons – so much so that Chelsea re-signed him in 2021.
But the Belgian was then loaned back to San Siro for the 2022-23 campaign, having enjoyed a mixed time since that 2021 transfer.
Juventus now seems the most likely destination for the 30-year-old as he seeks to reboot his career once more this summer. However, some Juve fans are not happy with the potential move.
On Sunday, Chelsea officially announced the signing of 18-year-old Brazilian winger Angelo Gabriel from Santos.
Although the terms of the deal were not disclosed, it was reported by British media that Chelsea paid 15 million euros to secure the teenager’s services, signing him on a long-term contract.
Angelo Gabriel joins the London club following an impressive stint at Santos, where he made 129 appearances across various competitions.
During his time there, he scored five goals and provided 10 assists.
Notably, in 2020, the Brazil Under-20 international became the youngest player to debut in the Brazilian top flight, achieving this milestone at the age of 15 years and 308 days, surpassing the previous recordheld by Pele.
There are reports that Mauricio Pochettino, the new manager of Chelsea, may look to offload at least four additional players before the club’s preseason tour.
Chelsea has undergone a significant summer overhaul, with approximately 25 players already being transferred out of the club.
Sportbible has reported that notable players like Mason Mount and Kai Havertz have been included in the extensive list of departures, with Mount joining rivals Manchester United and Havertz moving to Arsenal.
Other high-profile players who have left Stamford Bridge include Kalidou Koulibaly, N’Golo Kante, and Edouard Mendy, all of whom have made moves to Saudi Arabia.
There are further speculations that more players could be departing Chelsea in the coming days as the club aims to achieve financial stability following the significant investment made by new owner Todd Boehly in the previous two transfer windows.
Which Chelsea players could depart?
According to the Evening Standard, Pochettino is looking to sell at least four more players before the preseason tour.
The publication claims that Romelu Lukaku, Hakim Ziyech, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang are all unwanted at the West London club.
Lukaku, Ziyech, and Auba are understood to have been asked not to train with the rest of the squad members this week, with Chelsea keen to get rid of them.
Lukaku has been linked with a permanent move to the Serie A, with Juventus and Inter Milan eyeing his services.
On his part, Auba could move to Saudi Arabia, with his imminent exit coming after he spent only one season with Chelsea.
Pochettino’s comment on Lukaku
Sports Brief reported that Pochettino gave a brilliant response on Romelu Lukaku after being asked about the Belgian striker’s situation amidst his bid to move away from Stamford Bridge.
Poch refused to be drawn into the controversy and outlined a routine of players arriving for pre-season training and coming to his office to say hello, and said that he expects the same from Lukaku.
