Romelu Lukaku 'one of several Tottenham Hotspur targets'

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly set for another season of heavy spending in the transfer market, with Chelsea Romelu Lukaku believed to be high on the list of transfer targets for new boss Mauricio Pochettino.

According to The Mirror, director of football Franco Baldini has met with the club's new head coach and chairman Daniel Levy to discuss possible recruits and the 20-year-old Belgian international has been earmarked as a viable option.

Lukaku's hopes of a return may have been dashed by the purchase of Diego Costa for £32m.

Pochettino is also hoping to secure a move for Southampton centre-back Dejan Lovren, while Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld is also thought to be on Spurs' radar.

Article taken from: http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/romelu-lukaku-among-tottenham-targets-3693598?

Jackson Martinez would be a risk worth taking for Chelsea

Jackson Martinez appears to find himself at the centre of a typical modern transfer saga at present and Chelsea have been rather conspicuous by their absence from the most recent rumours concerning his talents

With the summer transfer window rapidly approaching, speculation as to the Colombian striker's next destination has begun to intensify.

The player's agent has understandably been very talkative about this very subject,claiming in reports released earlier on Wednesday that many clubs - including the likes of Arsenal, Roma Atletico Madrid, Valencia and Manchester United - were interested in his services and that Porto were seemingly willing to do business for a fee starting at around the £25 million mark.

Yet despite having been previously linked with a potential swoop for Martinez, Chelsea no longer appear to be considered as serious candidates in the race to secure his signature. 

Whether this is simply an oversight on behalf of the media, my own inability to recognise other reports or indeed a sign that Chelsea really are no longer particularly interested in bringing the 27-year-old to Stamford Bridge is unclear.

However, if it is the latter, I believe it is a particularly bad mistake on Jose Mourinho's part, especially given Martinez's quite breathtaking record and the fact that the Portuguese is obviously in need of improving the quality of his options in the final third ahead of the 2014/15 campaign.

Although Diego Costa - the mischievous and imposing Atletico Madrid striker - is widely expected to complete a move to Chelsea in the coming days, one can't help but feel that one addition of this nature simply isn't enough for the club to be able to fulfil their typically lofty ambitions. 

In an ideal world, Romelu Lukaku would return to Chelsea ready and able to prove that he is the right man to lead the line in West London following his hugely successful loan spells at West Brom and Everton.

However with a return for the Belgian seemingly having been cast into considerable doubt along with Samuel Eto'o's departure and rumours of potential exits for the likes of Fernando Torres and Demba Ba, Mourinho has his work cut out to mould his strikeforce ready for another assault on domestic and European glory.

Costa is a remarkable finisher and a real menace who is not afraid to get involved in physical battles with opposition defenders. As such, he should thrive in the fast and furious world of the Premier League.

Chelsea, though, will need another striker to compliment him, cover him and provide a slightly different option on the occasions where Costa is being sufficiently shackled.

As a pure out-and-out scoring talent with a real nous for consistently engineering himself into the correct positions inside the penalty box, Martinez could be equally as formidable a prospect in English football.

While it is perhaps true to suggest that he is yet to really prove himself on the world stage with his native Colombia, Martinez has been truly prolific during a two-year spell at the Estadio do Dragao - as a scintillating record of 40 goals in 66 games will testify - and appears to be entering his prime ahead of the World Cup.

Given that Martinez's only experience of domestic European football has been in the Primeira Liga where only a handful of clubs are considered to be capable of providing any real test, the former Chiapas man would certainly represent a risk for whichever manager moves fastest to sign him this summer.

However, for Chelsea and Mourinho in particular, I think Martinez would represent a risk that is certainly worth taking.

Article takne from: http://www.givemesport.com/474865-jackson-martinez-would-be-a-risk-worth-taking-for-chelsea

Mehdi Benatia wants Chelsea move

One of Manchester City’s top transfer targets for this summer has dealt Manuel Pellegrini and incredible blow, as it’s believe he wants to reject them in favour of a Chelsea switch.

The Daily Star relays reports from Italy which suggest that Roma lynchpin Mehdi Benatia is set to turn down the chance to move to the current Premier League champions, as he harbours hopes of being signed instead by Jose Mourinho. The Moroccan has been on the radar at the Etihad for some weeks now, and it’s thought City want to bring him in as a full-time defensive partner to club captain Vincent Kompany.

However Pellegrini is now staring down the barrel of an embarrassing rejection, as the 27-year-old, who enjoyed a very solid season at the Stadio Olimpico, has his eyes set on a Stamford Bridge switch. Rated at £30million the Roma man has risen to become one of Europe’s most sought-after assets and, despite the fact that Rudi Garcia is reportedly hell-bent on keeping his best players together to challenge Juventus’ dominance at the Serie A next season, a move to the Premier League is looking an increasingly likely prospect.

It’s said that Chelsea have lodged an enquiry to his current club to see how much scope there is for taking Benatia to Stamford Bridge, which will no doubt make the player himself happy. Mourinho has been extremely on point with his dealings in the transfer market so far, and it’s already looking like Francesc Fabregas and Diego Costa have all but cemented their places in his line-up next term.

However the Special One has earmarked the acquisition of a top central defender, and with his decision to allow backup choice Tomas Calas to join Cologne on a season-long loan only furthers his need to find another option. The ageing John Terry formed a solid partnership with Gary Cahill last campaign, but it remains to be seen whether or not the pair will be able to perform the same heroic feats this time around, and speculation would have you believe that Raphael Varane has also been targeted as a potential addition.

Youngster Kurt Zouma is also there to be considered of course, but rumours continue to infer that he will be farmed out on loan once more next season, and he very much looks like a player for the future rather than a feasible asset for the here and now.

As for City, Pellegrini will have to hope there’s more fish in the sea with regards to sourcing an alternative. With it having been confirmed that Joleon Lescott is leaving the club this summer, alongside the fact that neither Martin Demichelis or Matija Nastasic have been overly impressive when called upon, the Chilean needs to move fast if he is to guarantee defensive solidity in his bid to retain the English title.

Article taken from: http://www.givemesport.com/474665-mehdi-benatia-wants-chelsea-move

Jose Callejon yet to receive Chelsea offer

Chelsea are yet to make a move for Napoli winger Jose Callejon, according to the player's agent.

As reported by The Express, Jose Manuel Quilon - the agent of Callejon - has insisted that no movement has been made regarding a summer transfer for his client. 

Reports have previously suggested that Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho was readying a bid to bring the winger to Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2014/15 campaign. 

Callejon has certainly impressed many in recent time after scoring 15 goals for Napoli last term. His integral role in the team helped the club secure a third placed finish under Rafa Benitez in Serie A, but it remains to be seen as to whether he will leave the club in the up coming market. 

Regarding the winger's future, his agent told reporters: "I've heard these rumours, but they are just that – rumours.

"There have been many things written and said, but I will repeat – there has been absolutely nothing."

It will be interesting to see as to whether Blues boss Mourinho makes a move for the Spanish ace in the near future. Chelsea already have an array of talent in the attacking department with the likes of Eden Hazard, Oscar and Willian already at the club. 

Blues fans will certainly be excited ahead of the 2014/15 season, however, with Cesc Fabregas already having signed on with the club. The Spanish international joined the Stamford Bridge outfit in a deal worth £27 million from Barcelona yesterday, and further additions are expected at the club in the near future. 

It looks likely that Fabregas' international teammate Diego Costa will add to the club's options in attack in the coming days. The striker was one of the leading marksmen in Europe last term after helping Atletico reach the Champions League final and secure the La Liga title. 

Mourinho is seemingly determined not to go another season without a trophy at the Bridge after the club only managed a third placed Premier League finish last season. With Fabregas signed, Costa imminent and Callejon a possibility, Blues fans will expect trophy success next season. The Blues will be one of the favourites to land the Premier League crown, and will expect to overhaul Manchester City as champions of England

Article Taken from: http://www.givemesport.com/475761-jose-callejon-yet-to-receive-chelsea-offer

Chelsea re-open Radamel Falcao transfer talks

Chelsea have reignited their interest in Monaco forward Radamel Falcao according to reports in France.

Attack remains Chelsea's biggest headache ahead of the summer transfer window, and even with the impending arrival of Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid, they still have work to do in that area.

Samuel Eto'o is on his way out of the club, while Romelu Lukaku's future looks to be away from Stamford Bridge. If that does prove to be the case then Chelsea would have three strikers in Costa, Demba Ba and Fernando Torres. The latter two failed to fire last season and it would be a huge risk for Jose Mourinho to pin all his hopes on a player who has never experienced the Premier League before.

So it will come as no surprise to see Chelsea linked with another new forward.According to Le10 Sport, Monaco are willing to sell Falcao - who is recovering from a knee injury which wrecked his World Cup dream - after just one year in the principality. The Colombian cost in excess of £50 million from Atletico Madrid, and while his goal scoring record was passable, he's said to already want a move away.

The French source claim that Chelsea have pounced on this fact and have re-opened talks for his signature. The Blues were heavily linked with a move for him while he was still with Atletico, but Monaco blew them out of the water with a monster bid.

Of Course Chelsea fans would love to see "El Tigre" at Stamford Bridge - but whether they could afford him remains to be seen. They must keep one eye on their spending with UEFA lurking, and having spent almost £30 million on Cesc Fabregas with Costa expected to cost £32 million, they must be mindful of the purse strings. Of course the sale of David Luiz will offset much of the cost of those two, but Falcao will likely cost at least £40 million if not more.

Of course there is also the chance that Real Madrid could swoop too. Le10 Sport saythey have also reignited their interest, although they may be more preoccupied with securing the services of Luis Suarez from Liverpool.

Article taken from: http://www.givemesport.com/475804-chelsea-reopen-radamel-falcao-transfer-talks

Thibaut Courtois tells Chelsea to make him first choice over Petr Cech or he will leave

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has thrown Chelsea an ultimatum: make me first choice or let me go back to Atletico Madrid.

The Belgium goalkeeper, who helped Los Colchoneros to La Liga during a season-long loan last season, says his future will not be resolved until after the World Cup.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is keen for the 22-year-old to be at Stamford Bridge next season but Courtois says he will only return if he is made first choice ahead of Petr Cech.

‘Do I want to be number one wherever I play next season? Yes, I think with my age and the performances I had I want to play,’ said Courtois, who played 56 times for Atletico last season.

‘To be on the bench is not the nicest thing.’

Courtois confirmed he spoke with Mourinho before Atletico’s final league game of the season when they clinched the title with a 1-1 draw at Barcelona.

Mourinho then spoke of his desire for the goalkeeper to return to his parent club for next season but Courtois expects nothing to be settled during Brazil 2014.

‘It will be after the World Cup I think,’ he said. ‘Then everything will be clear.’

Article taken from: http://metro.co.uk/2014/06/14/thibaut-courtois-tells-chelsea-to-make-him-first-choice-over-petr-cech-or-he-will-leave-4761489/?

Chelsea eye up £12m move for Dinamo Kiev winger Andriy Yarmolenko

Jose Mourinho is looking to continue doing business in the transfer market this summer as he eyes up a £12 million move for Dinamo Kiev’s thunderous winger Andriy Yarmolenko, according to the Daily Mail.

Mourinho snapped up former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas during the week for a fee in the region of £26.6 million and the Portuguese coach is planning a swoop for Ukraine’s highly-rated winger Andriy Yarmolenko.

Yarmolenko, who is 6ft 2ins, has been chased by a number of clubs in recent months and Liverpool have been one of those who have expressed an interest in the Ukraine star.

Liverpool were put off by the £20 million price-tag on Yarmolenko’s head, however,Dinamo Kiev have now lowered their asking price for the talented midfielder.

Like Yehven Konoplyanka, Yarmolenko is highly-rated in his come country and the pair have both been scouted by a number of clubs across Europe.

Mourinho is looking to add more goals to his side with his strikers letting him down last season. The likes of Fernando Torres, Demba Ba and Samuel Eto’o failed to produce the goods on a regular basis and that has led Mourinho to splash out the cash this summer to bring in reinforcements.

Article taken from: http://www.squawka.com/news/chelsea-eye-up-12m-move-for-dinamo-kiev-winger-andriy-yarmolenko/123916?

Chelsea target Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang free to leave Borussia Dortmund

PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG could be set for a move to the Premier League with Chelsea and Newcastle leading the race to sign the unhappy Borussia Dortmund striker

The 24-year-old Gabon international signed for the German club from St Etienne last summer for an undisclosed fee despite interest from the Geordie club at the time. 

Reports in France indicate that Aubameyang has been told by Dortmund that he is free to leave after failing to consistently break into their starting XI despite scoring 13 times. 

Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski has agreed a free transfer to Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich but he has been replaced by Italian striker Ciro Immobile.

Aubameyang has a contract with the club until 2018 but there is a release clause of just over £6m which has re-ignited Alan Pardew's interest.

The Magpies are in desperate need of a striker after failing to permanently sign Loic Remy and Aubameyang fits the bill. 

Chelsea were told in May that he was not for sale as Jose Mourinho looks to beef up his attack following the paltry goal return from Fernando Torres, Demba Ba and Samuel Eto'o. 

CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke said at the time: "Why should he be leaving? He has just played here for one season.

"We did not believe he would be put up [in the team] from the start in every match for our club.

"We have an immense competition for places in the first team, this was impossible for him.

"We are content with Aubameyang, he has a contract left at our club."

However it appears that the club have changed their mind after signing Immobile and Mourinho is thought to be keen to add the versatile attacker to his squad having already agreed a deal to sign Diego Costa.

Article taken from: http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/482369/Chelsea-and-Newcastle-target-Pierre-Emerick-Aubameyang-free-to-leave-Borussia-Dortmund

Chelsea In Talks to Sign Another Former Arsenal Man: £10m Deal Discussed

Having completed the signing of former Gunners captain Cesc Fabregas it appears that Jose Mourinho is looking to bring in another former Arsenal man with the Metro claiming that Chelsea boss is ready to make a £10m bid for Cameroon international Alex Song.

The 26 year old is one of a host of player incoming Barcelona manager Luis Enrique is ready to offload and want £10m for the tough tackler.

Mourinho is ready to sell John Obi Mikel and sees Song as the man to challenge Serbian Nemanja Matic next season with Chelsea hopeful of signing the midfielder this summer.

Song enjoyed seven seasons at the Emirates Stadium before moving to Barcelona in August 2012 but has never been a first team regular, with Spanish international Sergio Busquets being the club’s regular defensive midfield starter.

Jose Mourinho may well look to make a number of summer signings but will no doubt look to balance the books with player sales in the same manner in which he operated in the January transfer window.

Chelsea have already banked almost £50m from the sale of David Luiz to PSG.

Article taken from: http://www.caughtoffside.com/2014/06/13/chelsea-in-talks-to-sign-another-former-arsenal-man-10m-deal-discussed/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=chelsea-in-talks-to-sign-another-former-arsenal-man-10m-deal-discussed

Chelsea have completed the signing of Filipe Luis, according to reports

Chelsea have just completed the signing of Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona, and many fans are anticipating the announcement of another signing soon. According to Fabrizio Romano, that signing might not be the first one you'd expect to be announced.

Luis would fill a clear void at Chelsea, as he'd walk into the starting lineup at left back despite how well Cesar Azpilicueta played there last season. The move would also allow Azpilicueta to challenge Branislav Ivanovic on the right, as well as allowing the Serbian to effectively fill the role of third-choice center back. That fills the void left by Ashley Cole's departure, as well as the center back responsibilities of David Luiz.

At 29-years old, Luis is probably not exactly great value for our money, but with a squad that's beginning to look as if it might be the best in Europe next season, it's fairly hard to complain too much if this report proves to be true. A midfielder would still be nice though.

Article Taken from: http://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours-news/2014/6/13/5807552/chelsea-fc-transfer-news-filipe-luis-atletico-madrid?

£30M Rated Ace Wanted By Chelsea

Mehdi Benatia is headed to London, according to the Daily Star, with the Moroccan international set to snub champions Manchester City, in favour of a move to Chelsea. Although the article contains no quotes attributed to Benatia, or anyone else for that matter, it does pose an intriguing question, who requires his services more?

Standing at over six feet tall, the Roma centre-back wouldn’t struggle with the physicality of the Premier League, although in reality his game relies more on tactical awareness and positioning than all-out strength.

He notched five goals in his first season as a Roma player, having joined in the summer from fellow Serie A side Udinese for €13.5 million, highlighting his danger at set-pieces. More impressive is the fact he was the leader of a defensive unit that only conceded twenty-five goals all season, compared to Manchester City’s thirty-seven, and Chelsea’s twenty-seven.

Jose Mourinho rightfully gained plaudits for the way his Chelsea side defended last season, in particular centre-back pairing John Terry and Gary Cahill. Cahill in particular has developed into a world-class centre halve, under the tutelage of both Mourinho and Terry.

The only issue is, at the age of 33, John Terry cannot continue to play thirty-four games a season, as he did last campaign. Benatia would alleviate the pressure on Terry, with the potential for a two games on, one game of policy, that was used when Chelsea played Branislav Ivanovic, Terry and Cahill at centre-back. When Terry eventually retires, the likes of Kurt Zouma and Tomas Kalas can also step into the first-team fold, in his abscence.

Manchester City’s need for a centre-back is more obvious. With Matjia Nastasic’s knee injury keeping the talented youngster on the sidelines, and Joleon Lescott departing Manchester City on a free, Vincent Kompany and Martin Demichelis are the only senior centre-backs at the club.

Similarly to the situation with Terry at Chelsea, Manuel Pellegrini will be concerned with how many games Demichelis was required to play last season, meaning a defender becomes a priority in the transfer window.

In truth, both teams would benefit from the services of Benatia, a marvellous defender, although with their lack of adequate defensive options, Manchester City are slightly more needy.

Benatia would be a brave man to turn down Manchester City with the expectation of joining Chelsea, and the lure of London is not as bright as it once was, in this cosmopolitan age! He will excel in the Premier League, so let’s hope someone is able to wrap up a deal.

Article taken from: http://threeandin.com/archives/40847?

Chelsea boss Mourinho wants reunion with Real Madrid midfielder Khedira

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho wants to rekindle his relationship with Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira, as reports The Daily Star.

Khedira, who is currently in Brazil on duty with the Germany national team at the World Cup, moved to Real Madrid from Stuttgart following the 2010 World Cup and played under Mourinho in Real Madrid’s La Liga winning campaign.

Real Madrid are thought to be heavily interested in Ramires after he endured a below-par season for the Blues, with Carlo Ancelotti keen on being reunited with the man he brought to Stamford Bridge back in 2010, and los Blancos have attempted to include the two in a potential swap deal.

Ancelotti is keen to build on his squad in the summer as he looks to overthrow Atletico Madrid in La Primera and defend the Champions League trophy they claimed after defeating their city rivals in the final.

Ramires is thought to top his wishlist in terms of midfield options and an offer has been made to Chelsea in the hope of bringing him to Santiago Bernabeu, hoping that the offer of Khedira might sway Jose Mourinho’s decision, with the Blues’ boss a fan of the German from their time together at Real.

Chelsea however have dismissed that bid out of hand as they value the Brazilian midfielder higher than Khedira and Real will now decide as to whether to make an improved bid for Ramires or explore other avenues, with Marco Verratti of Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan midfielder Mateo Kovacic both believed to be alternative targets.

Luiz completes PSG move

Paris, France (SportsNetwork.com) - Former Chelsea defender David Luiz completed a move to French champions Paris Saint-Germain, the Ligue 1 club announced on Friday.

Luiz moves from Stamford Bridge to the Parc des Princes on a new five-year contract for a reported 40 million pound transfer fee -- a record for a defender.

"Right from the very first contact I had with Paris Saint-Germain, I was very happy," Luiz told the club's website. "It's a big club with a great history. It's a new step in my life and I'm impatient to play for Paris and show what I can do."

Luiz, 27, joined the Blues from Portuguese side Benfica in 2011 for 21 million pounds and made 143 appearances, helping the club win the Europa League in 2013 and reach the Champions League semifinals last season.

In Paris, Luiz will join up with his international teammate Thiago Silva, who also set a transfer record for a defender when he joined PSG for 36 million pounds from AC Milan.

Article taken from: http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/tsnform.aspx?c=sportsnetwork&page=soc-cup/news/news.aspx?id=4701300

Everton's Bill Kenwright desperate to keep Romelu Lukaku and Gareth Barry at Goodison Park

The loanees played a pivotal role in the Toffees successful season which saw them narrowly miss out on Champions League football.

Lukaku, 21, scored 15 goals in 31 appearances for the Toffees last campaign and has become a fan favourite.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez, who signed a new three-year-deal at Goodison yesterday, is keen to retain the services of Lukaku.

But it looks increasingly likely that the Belgian international won't be playing his football in Liverpool next season as the striker has been heavily linked with a move to Atletico Madrid to replace the out-going Diego Costa.

Martinez's desire to keep Lukaku has been echoed by Kenwright, but the 68-year-old knows the club face an uphill struggle to keep the highly coveted striker.

He said: “Romelu was a great addition to Everton. I have to tell you, off the pitch as well as on, he is an extraordinary boy. As you know he speaks all those languages, he’s got a terrific family and he walks the walk as well as talking the talk.

“We would love to have him back and people at Chelsea are good friends of mine so we are hopeful. But he is at the World Cup now and I think we will have to see what happens at the World Cup.

Kenwright is also keen to keep Manchester City loanee Gareth Barry.

The ex-England international had an impressive spell at Goodison last season after being told City boss Manuel Pellegrini that he did not fit into his plans.

Kenwright said: “Gareth Barry had a great season for us and I know the manager has spoken to him and I will meet with his people and we are hopeful that he will be there next season.”

Article taken from: http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/383681/Everton-s-Bill-Kenwright-desperate-to-keep-Romelu-Lukaku-and-Gareth-Barry-at-Goodison-Park

Arsenal and Chelsea are said to have been interested in the player.

The agent of Wilfried Bony has said he is now worth £20 million, a summer after Newcastle United could have signed him for half the price.

Bony had an impressive first season in the Premier League for Swansea City having scored 26 goals in 48 games in all competitions for the Swans. 

Dalibor Lacina is quoted in FourFourTwo, saying: “The next step for Bony is a top six team in England or a top team in Germany, Spain or France, or he will stay with Swansea."

Both Arsenal and Chelsea have been amongst several Premier League clubs linked with a move for the Ivory Coast international but Lacina also revealed that Newcastle missed out on the chance to sign the player last summer, when Bony opted for a move to South Wales. 

“I spoke to Newcastle about Bony last summer. Newcastle should have bought Bony a year ago, but they didn’t believe in him.

“They could have signed him for £10 million, but they said they weren’t sure if he was good enough, that he was only playing in Holland."

Arsenal are said to be in the market for a new striker to both provide competition, and to support Olivier Giroud up front, whilst Chelsea are still said to be after improving their forward line with Diego Costa due to join the club from Atletico Madrid this summer. 

Lacina criticised Newcastle for lacking ambition and given how he performed last term, there will be some Newcastle fans wishing the hierachy had sanctioned the offer, in order for them to try and push on in the top half of the Premier League.

Swansea will be determined to keep hold of the 25-year-old they signed from Vitesse Arnhem last summer, but after the season he had they are going to have a fight on their hands. 

Article taken from: http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/06/13/ib-next-step-for-bony-is-a-top-six-team-as-agent-claims-he-could/?

Three Chelsea players who will benefit from Cesc Fabregas’ move to Stamford Bridge

Considering Arsene Wenger has a degree in economics, it is surprising that the numbers did not add up for Le Professeur in regards to Cesc Fabregas this summer.

Following the news that the former Gunners captain had been made available by Barcelona, a return to the Emirates was widely expected.

However, the French manager opted against re-signing the Spaniard, leaving room for Premier League rivals Chelsea to complete a deal to take Cesc Fabregas to Stamford Bridge on a five year contract.

The west Londoners’ were reportedly set to endure a cautious approach this summer due to the threat of a Financial Fair Play infringement, but Jose Mourinho’s own business credentials have gone up a notch, considering the business he has completed thus far.

The addition of Fabregas for a fee in the region of £30 million is an outstanding piece of business given his talent, stature and ability. The midfielder is set to play a significant role for Spain in this summer’s World Cup and will then make his highly anticipated return to England’s top-tier.

Able to fulfil a variety of positions, from the centre of midfield, to a number 10 role, or even a false nine, if Fabregas is in a rich vein of form he will provide a significant amount of options to the wealth of talent already at Mourinho’s disposal.

Squawka takes a look at three £82 million trio of Chelsea players that will benefit from Fabregas’ imminent arrival. Arsenal fans, look away now.

Article taken from: http://www.squawka.com/news/three-chelsea-players-who-will-benefit-from-cesc-fabregas-move-to-stamford-bridge/122907?

Chelsea midfielder could be on his way to Valencia

Jon Obi-Mikel has become the latest Chelsea player to be linked with a move away from the club, as Valencia have made him a transfer target, reports the Daily Mail. The Nigerian international is one of Chelsea’s longest serving players currently, but his time at Stamford Bridge might be drawing to a close.

 The player made 36 appearances for Chelsea last season, although he was largely used as a second-half substitute by Jose Mourinho. The club have reportedly made the player available, and he has attracted interest from around Europe. Inter Milan have been monitoring his situation, but Valencia have emerged as forerunners to sign the midfielder, as they look to bolster their prospects in La Liga next year.

Mikel has been at the Blue’s for the past 8 seasons, and he has won many trophies there (including the Champion’s League in 2012). He now looks to be one of many of an old guard of players that will leave the club this summer. Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard have already announced their intentions to move elsewhere, although club captain, John Terry, has been offered a one year extension to his contract.

Mikel is still only 27 years old, and he would represent a good piece of business should another club capture him. He will play for Nigeria at this summer’s World Cup, where he is amongst the most capped players in the national set-up.

Article taken from: http://astralfootball.com/chelsea-midfielder-could-be-on-his-way-to-valencia/30470?

Cesc Fabregas joins Chelsea in a €33.5 million deal

Cesc Fabregas has joined Chelsea where he will be expected to become a cornerstone of Jose Mourinho’s reconstructed team next season.

The Spain midfielder, currently with his national side in Brazil, returns to the Premier League after Barcelona accepted an initial € 33.5 million offer from Stamford Bridge with €3.0 million in add-ons based on appearances.

Arsenal declined to exercise an option to buy back the former captain they sold to Barcelona three years ago but are due a sell-on fee which may end up being around €3 million.

Mourinho has moved quickly to fill the impending void left by Frank Lampard’s departure from Chelsea by giving the 27-year-old a five-year deal. Both men trust the transfer can help ensure there is no repeat of last season’s trophy-less campaign in west London.

By the end of his contract Fabregas intends to have completed “unfinished business” in the Premier League and will presumably hope to leave Arsène Wenger believing he made a big mistake in not welcoming him back to the Emirates.

Unfinished business

“I do feel I have unfinished business in the Premier League and now is the right time for me to return,” said Fabregas who spent eight years at Arsenal after coming through Barcelona’s youth system.

He hankered for a return to Spain but, despite collecting four winners’ medals in his first season and celebrating the first league title of his career the following year, things did not proceed as planned.

Although he scored 35 goals in 129 appearances, Fabregas struggled to hold down a regular place at a club in which Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets were regarded as the preferred central midfield combination. He was heavily linked with a move to Manchester United last summer.

Twelve months on, Wenger did not jump to re-engage him.

“Yes, everyone knows that Arsenal had the first option to sign me,” said Fabregas. “They decided not to take this option and therefore it wasn’t meant to be. I wish them well in the future.

“I considered all the other offers very carefully and I firmly believe that Chelsea is the best choice. They match my footballing ambitions with their hunger and desire to win trophies. They have an amazing squad of players and an incredible manager.”

Fabregas is likely to be joined at Chelsea by Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa.

Article taken from: http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/cesc-fabregas-joins-chelsea-in-a-33-5-million-deal-1.1830442

Jose Mourinho refuses to sell Petr Cech to Arsenal

Jose Mourinho has told Chelsea officials to make sure Petr Cech is not sold to Arsenal should he be forced to sell the goalkeeper,reports Spanish newspaper AS.

The Chelsea manager is currently in the process of trying to convince Thibaut Courtois to return to the club and compete with Cech for the number one spot. Courtois has spent three seasons on loan at Atletico Madrid and isn't willing to return unless first team football is guaranteed.

It may, therefore, become impossible for Mourinho to bring back Courtois and also keep Cech at the club, meaning he may have to sell the 31-year-old after 10-years as Chelsea's first choice 'keeper.

Currently boasting a basic wage of £100,000-a-week, there are few clubs who would be able to afford signing Cech, and one of the only big clubs currently looking for a new goalkeeper are Chelsea's London rivals Arsenal.

The Gunners find themselves with just one recognised goalkeeper in their squad following the departure of Lukasz Fabianski and Emiliano Viviano. Although Wojciech Szczesny is thought of highly, Arsene Wenger is keen to provide Szczesny with some quality competition in an attempt to inspire the Pole to improve.

Cech would be perfect for such a role and Arsenal would be able to afford his wages as well as Chelsea's asking price should he become available. Wenger has been given £100m to spend of transfers and wages, making Cech's £100,000-a-week wage easy to absorb.

However, in a similar situation to that of Demba Ba, Mourinho will refuse to see one of Chelsea's players for a direct Premier League rival and has vetoed any suggestion of selling the Czech Republic international to the Gunners.

Mourinho cancelled a deal that would have seen Ba join Arsenal on loan at the last minute on transfer deadline day in September 2013 but Mourinho won't even consider talking to Arsenal regarding Cech.

It remains to be seen whether or not Cech will have any other takers apart from the Gunners. It may be possible that Mourinho's reluctance to sell Cech to Arsenal will cause Courtois to spend another season away from Stamford Bridge in La Liga as Cech being in the squad seems to be the only thing standing between Courtois and his Chelsea debut.

Article taken from: http://www.givemesport.com/473198-jose-mourinho-refuses-to-sell-petr-cech-to-arsenal?autoplay=on

Chelsea to give Eden Hazard huge new contract

Chelsea are ready to hand Eden Hazard a huge new contract in order to ward off interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

The Belgian had a superb 2013/14 Premier League campaign, but has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge after seemingly falling out with manager Jose Mourinho.

Reports in France this week have suggested that Paris Saint-Germain are about launch a huge €75 million offer for the Chelsea star, having already met with his representatives back in March.

However it seems as though Chelsea are alert to the possible interest in their player of the season and are about to move in order to tie him down to a new long-term contract.

According to Belgian source Sud-Info, the Blues are going to hand him a massive improvement on the €11.5 million he already earns - although an exact figure of the new deal isn't mentioned.

The clearest indication that the 23-year-old will stay with Chelsea came yesterday when it was confirmed yesterday that he would be wearing the number 10 shirt next season, making the switch from the number 17 shirt he wore last time round.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are set to announce a deal for striker Diego Costa, while Cesc Fabregas and Filipe Luis could be on their way to Stamford Bridge as well.

Article taken from: http://www.givemesport.com/472773-chelsea-to-give-eden-hazard-huge-new-contract

Mark Schwarzer confirms he'll stay at Chelsea

Chelsea's back-up keeper, Mark Schwarzer, has confirmed that Jose Mourinho wants him to stay on at Stamford Bridge for another season, despite his name appearing on the club's released list.

The Australian signed for Chelsea on a one year deal last season after his contract ended with local rivals Fulham, but now looks set to stay on for another year.

The 41-year-old has confirmed: “I've had messages from the boss, he's very keen for me to re-sign with the club.”

“That's all I really need to know, that he wants to keep me at the club and I'll leave the rest up to the powers-that-be to sort it all out,”

“I'm confident it'll be sorted out in the next week or two.”

Despite only playing a handful of games for the Blues last season, the experienced keeper is keen to stay on at a top level club for as long as he can, due to the incomparable experiences that it provides.

He said “I still want to stay in Europe as long as possible. If I have the chance to stay at a club like Chelsea, I'd love to do so because it's an unbelievable experience.”

“I had opportunities to play in the Champions League semi-final and vie for the title – and that's something invaluable and something I hadn't experienced before.”

The news all but confirms that both the reigning Petr Cech and youngster Thibaut Courtois will not both stay at Stamford Bridge next term, with Cech likely to be sold or Courtois loaned out for another season.

Article taken from: http://www.givemesport.com/472849-mark-schwarzer-confirms-hell-stay-at-chelsea

Chelsea want Mario Mandzukic to partner Diego Costa

Chelsea are on the verge of sealing the signing of Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid - and will now move to target Bayern Munich forward Mario Mandzukic to partner the Brazilian, according to the Daily Mail.

Costa is expected to arrive at Stamford Bridge for a fee believed to be in the region of £32 million, and will provide Jose Mourinho with some much-needed options in attack after his strike trio of Demba Ba, Samuel Eto'o and Fernando Torres failed to fire last season.

He has reportedly been handed a £150,000-per-year contract, and he is believed to have completed his medical ahead of his announcement as a Chelsea player shortly. 

However Mourinho isn't expected to end his pursuit of a striker there, and will now push to sign Mandzukic from Bayern Munich. The Croatian is believed to be surplus to requirements at the Allianz Arena, and has also been linked with a switch to Arsenal.

Along with a move for Mandzukic, Mourinho also wants to wrap up deals for Atletico Madrid pair Filipe Luis and Tiago, who played under the Special One at Chelsea back in 2004.

Along with a host of new faces at Stamford Bridge there could be one, more familiar, arrival, with Thibaut Courtois returning from his three season loan spell at Atletico Madrid.