Chelsea transfer news: Chelsea line up swoop for Jose Callejon
/dnl.eurosport.com/sd/img/placeholder/eurosport_logo_1x1.png){kind=logo}
ByEurosport
Updated 29/07/2015 at 18:46 GMT
Chelsea are set to make a move for Napoli forward Jose Callejon, that is according to the Express.
Napoli's forward from Spain Jose Maria Callejon controls the ball during a training session on the eve of the UEFA Europa League semi final first leg football match SSC Napoli vs FK Dnipro on May 6, 2015 at the SSC Napoli headquarters in Castelvolturno
Image credit: AFP
Former Real Madrid forward Callejon is said to be available for £15.5million.
Callejon, who worked with Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho at Madrid, operates as a wide forward and Chelsea’s interest in the Spain international calls into question the futures of Mo Salah and Juan Cuadrado, the report adds.
OUR VIEW
Mo Salah and Juan Cuadrado are fine players. In fact, their careers in Italy have topped that of Callejon, so this transfer appears to make little sense. Mourinho has worked with Callejon before so could possibly have something specific in mind for 28-year-old but he hardly appears an upgrade on what the champions already have.
JULY 28
Chelsea are keen on replacing Filipe Luis with another Brazilian left-back – Alex Telles.
According to the Mail, the club have spoken to Galatasaray about landing the 22-year-old.
Augsburg’s Abdul Baba Rahman was also on Chelsea’s radar but is seen as too expensive at around £15 million.
OUR VIEW
Strange that Chelsea would try and replace a player that barely got into the first-team last season. However, they will need a strong squad for their adventures in Europe as well as another tilt at the Premier League. So, you can’t rule it out. But do they not have any youngsters who could fill the squad role?
JULY 27
Chelsea are believed to be 'open' to the prospect of selling Juan Cuadrado, with Juventus keen to snap up the Colombian.
Juventus want to take the winger, 27, on loan, but the Blues would rather sell him and would accept £18m, £5m less than they paid for him six months ago.
OUR VIEW
Cuadrado has struggled badly since arriving at Chelsea in the January transfer window and it's not surprising that they are open to him leaving. Cuadrado did very well in Serie A with Fiorentina and would jump at the chance of a return.
JULY 26
John Stones is on the Chelsea shopping list.
The 21-year-old had been identified by Jose Mourinho as one of Chelsea's main targets this summer as a long-term replacement for captain John Terry.
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2014/12/12/1370252-29399049-2560-1440.jpg)
John Stones
Image credit: PA Sport
However, relations between the English champions and Everton have soured after Gary Cahill urged his England team-mate to move to Stamford Bridge.
As the situation continues to remain deadlock, the Telegraph is reporting that Man United boss Louis van Gaal is keeping a keen eye on proceedings in the hope of bolstering his own defensive options.
OUR VIEW
John Stones clearly has a big future in the game and who can blame Chelsea for wanting to snap up the defender now before it gets too late. However, Everton are justifiably upset at the London club's public pursuit of the centre-back, and their attempts to unsettle him through the media.
At 21 years of age the most important thing a young centre-back can do is play football, something which is no guarantee for him at either Chelsea or Manchester United.
JULY 25
Jose Mourinho wants to bring Charles Aranguiz to Chelsea after his starring role in Chile's Copa America success this summer.
Italian website Tutto Mercato are reporting that the Internacional midfielder is expected to leave for a European club this summer, with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen extremely keen on the 26-year-old.
Aranguiz struck six goals in 24 Brazilian league games last season before playing a starring role in Chile's Copa America triumph.
OUR VIEW
Aranguiz is in demand after his impressive showings in last month's Copa America, and at 26 he should be at the right stage of his career development to make the step up to Europe.
Mourinho is an admirer of the midfielder, but he cannot guarantee the Chile star minutes on the pitch, which could prove a sticking point in any potential deal.
JULY 24
Newcastle midfielder Moussa Sissoko looks set to leave St James' Park this summer with Chelsea joining the race for his signature.
French website Foot Mercato are reporting that the Premier League champions are joining Tottenham at the front of the queue for the 25 year-old.-
Both clubs are considering an £18 million bid for the midfielder. They believe that Newcastle will be willing sellers after signing Georginio Wijnaldum already this summer, though Steve McClaren would prefer to have both at his disposal.
OUR VIEW
It's clear that Sissoko doesn't see his long-term future in the North East, and Chelsea have joined a long queue of suitors. Jose Mourinho can offer the Frenchman the chance to win trophies, but there will be no guarantee of a starting place at Stamford Bridge.
JULY 23
Jose Mourinho is after another forward with Napoli's Spanish forward Jose Maria Callejon interesting the Premier League champions.
New Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri is looking to overhaul the squad after they missed out on Champions League qualification.
Reports in Italy are suggesting that the Blues have entered into negotiations with the Italian club over a move for the 28 year-old, who has scored 32 goals in two seasons.
Napoli have offered the Spain international to Chelsea as part of a bid for Mo Salah, but he is likely to cost the Blues around £10 million.
OUR VIEW
Jose Mourinho likes to operate with a lone striker, meaning that he tends to have only three in his squad. With Radamel Falcao already bought and Loic Remy's future uncertain there may be a need for a new forward player.
Callejon is a decent forward but his record is unremarkable and he would not hugely improve the Chelsea squad.
JULY 22
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has dampened speculation linking the club with a move for Belgian international Axel Witsel.
The Zenit St Petersburg has been linked with Chelsea throughout the summer, and he is keen on a new challenge after three years in Russia.
However, Blues manager Mourinho has intimated that he does not have space for another midfielder in his squad.
"At this moment we have Matic, Ramires, Cesc, Mikel, Loftus-Cheek and Oscar. Six midfield players. I have no extra space," he said. The 26 year-old has also bene linked with a switch to AC MIlan.
OUR VIEW
Witsel is a very talented player whose skill has become somewhat forgotten about in the Russian Premier League. A move to Chelsea would appeal to him and offer him the chance to start again.
Mourinho is right when he says he is well stocked in that position already, but is anyone arguing that Jon Obi Mikel could do a superior job to Witsel in the Premier League?
JULY 21
Chelsea are keen to wrap up a deal for Augsburg left-back Abdul Baba Rahman after Filipe Luis returned to Atletico Madrid.
The Spanish club have re-signed the Brazil international for close to the £16 million they sold him for last summer, paving the way for the pursuit of the £14m-rated Ghanaian, the Evening Standard is reporting.
Rahman would like assurances that he will get to play regularly, given Luis started only nine league games last season, but it is thought he favours a move to the English champions ahead of Roma.
The Italian club had been favourites to sign him as the Luis sale dragged on, but with his transfer confirmed Jose Mourinho is ready to make his move for his preferred replacement.
OUR VIEW
Rahman is raw, and at only 21 years-old he has a lot of potential to grow into. But he was voted the best left-back in the Bundesliga last season and is eight years Filipe Luis' junior.
He will provide further competition for Cesar Azpilicueta, who remains Jose Mourinho's first choice left back.
At £14m it looks a smart move for Mourinho to make as he looks to flesh out his squad ahead of the new season.
JULY 20
Everton apparently want more than £30m for Stones, 21, but Chelsea will test the water with a £26m offer. They are also apparently considering offering Victor Moses as part of the offer, but any deal may be dependent on Stones asking his club for a move to Chelsea.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez is apparently unhappy with the English champions's conduct in trying to unsettle their player.
Mourinho see Stones as long-term successor to captain John Terry at the heart of the Chelsea defence. He will be offered the number six shirt if he moves to Stamford Bridge.
"At the moment they say: 'We don’t accept this bi'd”. They don’t say: 'We don’t accept bids; any bids'. While they say, 'We don’t accept this bid' until September 1, we can improve the bid: £1 more, £10 more, we can improve the bid," said Mourinho.
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/07/18/1643214-34862151-2560-1440.jpg)
Jose Mourinho
Image credit: AFP
"If one day Roberto Martinez or the chairman says: 'He’s not for sale; we don’t accept any bid', game over. So during this process, it’s clear, we don’t deny we made a bid for Stones. It means we are trying to buy."
Martinez was unhappy after Everton lost 3-1 to Arsenal in the final of the Asia Trophy on Saturday.
"One thing is clear, we pride ourselves in playing a certain way and educating our young players in a manner in which they will always attract attention from elsewhere and that is a footballing compliment.
‘The other side is that another club is making a statement in the press so openly and I don’t think that is the way we would do it at Everton. We wouldn’t speak about a player at another club.
"And there is no issue from our point of view. John Stones is an Everton player full stop. We are not a selling club in that respect. There is nothing to speak to John about. I always speak with players but there is nothing to comment about."
OUR VIEW
Difficult really to see where Everton are coming from in claiming Chelsea are deliberately unsettling a player when we are in the middle of the transfer season. Chelsea have every right to offer money for a player they want, and Everton have every right to reject the offer. You suspect Martinez's unhappiness is related to the prospect of losing a figure who would have been a key man for them this season. His discontent will continue if Stones tries to force through a move to London.
- - -
July 18
Everton have turned down a £20m offer from Chelsea for defender John Stones, according to reports.
Stones, who signed for Everton from Barnsley in 2013 for a reported £3 million, has been capped for England four times after excelling for the Toffees.
Chelsea are known to be targeting defensive reinforcements with boss Jose Mourinho said to have shown an interest in Real Madrid’s Rafael Varane earlier in the window but, after that moved fizzled out, has now turned his attentions to Stones.
Stones signed a new five-year deal at Everton in August 2014 but Chelsea have made their move, according to Sky Sports News.
OUR VIEW
Stones is contracted to Everton until 2019, so the Toffees have a very strong hand here. Furthermore, Stones remains a very fine prospect but far from the finished article. To be frank, at Chelsea his development could be hampered if fails to establish himself in the first team.
It is clear why Chelsea want him. He is a young, ball-playing centre-half, who could be England’s first choice for years to come. However, this deal makes little sense for Everton or the player: Everton would not get much change – if any - out of £20m if they wanted to replace Stones with a player of similar calibre while the player is unlikely to be a first choice centre-back at Chelsea – in fact, he could find himself fourth in the pecking order behind John Terry, Gary Cahill and Kurt Zouma.
July 17
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/04/14/1456167-31120297-2560-1440.jpg)
Axel Witsel
Image credit: From Official Website
Chelsea will apparently have to pay £24 million to sign Belgium midfielder Axel Witsel from Zenit St Petersburg.
Some media reports are suggesting Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has flown to St Petersburg to discuss his transfer from the Russian club due to his connections with their president Dyukov Valeryevich.
Chelsea scout Piet De Visser appeared to pour cold water on such speculation last month when he said: "Currently, this is not on the agenda, because Jose Mourinho has a great midfield with Matic and Fabregas. But what is not, can come. The interest may increase.
"If he goes to Man United, then he can be complementary with Fellaini, but Juventus would be even more an ideal club. I see Witsel more like a Pirlo type. So not a pure defensive midfielder... If Pirlo leaves, he would be able to follow perfectly."
OUR VIEW
It depends on what Chelsea are looking for, but Witsel would bring a fair degree of experience to a Chelsea side not short on those attributes. He is a disciplined and hard-working figure who is never more comfortable than when the battle is raging in the heart of midfield. In such a respect, he looks like a perfect fit for the Premier League. He is a fine passer of the ball, and is blessed with real technique. He can sit deep, but can also pick out a pass moving forward. In many respects, he would be an ideal figure for Chelsea to recruit because he would enhance their options. The sticking point may be the figure. Chelsea may need to go higher than £24 million with Zenit looking to recoup the £35m they paid to sign him from Benfica in 2011, but there is little doubt Witsel, 24, would seize the opportunity to perform in the Premier League.
- - -
July 16
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/equinoxe/2015/05/06/1480445-31606050-2560-1440.jpg)
Chelsea sign Juan Cuadrado (Twitter)
Image credit: Eurosport
Any Juventus move for Juan Cuadrado would reportedly be dependent on Barcelona’s Pedro moving to Chelsea.
Cuadrado joined the Blues in January from Fiorentina but struggled to make an impact at Stamford Bridge and has been linked with a return to Serie A, with the Bianconeri at the head of the queue.
Jose Mourinho’s side have been linked with a €30m move for Barcelona winger Pedro and according to Corriere dello Sport the Colombian international would only be allowed to leave if that deal goes through.
The newspaper reports that although Chelsea are looking to sell outright, the Old Lady would offer a €4m loan with a mandatory redemption clause set at €24m.
However, that €28m total is still some way short of the €34m the Blues are thought to be asking for the former Viola man.
OUR VIEW
Juan Cuadrado needs a move away from Chelsea – put simply, this move just has not worked out the way any parties had expected. However, if his future is dependent on Pedro then he may have to stick it out a few more months because a move to Chelsea for Pedro would likely play out the same way moves for Cuadrado, Mohamed Salah and Andre Schurrle have done – namely sitting on the bench.
Jose Mourinho seems happy with the balance in the attacking third – no one is dislodging Eden Hazard from his spot on the left while the Portuguese coach loves the defensive nous of William on the other side.
JULY 14
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/06/04/1605133-34100051-2560-1440.jpg)
Barcelona's Pedro Rodriguez celebrates after he scored a goal against Elche
Image credit: Reuters
Chelsea are lining up a £20million bid for Barcelona winger Pedro, who admits he has received 'important offers', according to the Mirror.
The Spanish winger has revealed that he "wants to play a lot of minutes but that is becoming difficult" at Barcelona, so may have to consider leaving the Nou Camp. The Chelsea target claims that he has received a number of "important offers" but refused to let on as to which clubs are in for him "out of respect for Barcelona".
The Mirror claim that Jose Mourinho's side are considering a £20 million bid for the highly-decorated winger and will offer Pedro a four-year deal. The report suggests the player, who is on hliday in Tenerife, had a lengthy discussion with Spain team-mate Cesc Fabregas about Chelsea and had glowing reports on the wst London outfit.
OUR VIEW
Pedro is still highly-regarded at the Nou Camp and Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has revealed that he does not want the player to leave, though he said he would not stand in the way if he made such a decision. The array of attacking talent at Barca has seen the Spaniard's playing time limited, so all indications point to an exit, albeit a somewhat reluctant one. Pedro may look at Andre Schurrle, Juan Cuadrado and Mo Salah before making up his mind.
- - -
July 13
The Italian club were apparently considering suing the Premier League champions after Mohamed Salah refused to return to Fiorentina for pre-season training despite an agreement in place that would have seen the former Basle winger spend another year on loan at the Serie A club.
But now Fiorentina are interested in acquiring a similar temporary deal for Loftus-Cheek in a move that apparently end the threat of legal action over the collapse of the Salah agreement.
Loftus-Cheek, 19 has made three appearance for Chelsea, featuring more prominently towards the end of last season.
But Mourinho was openly critical of the player during last month's post-season trip to Australia and a 1-0 friendly win over Sydney. .
“When Chelsea had the ball he was playing very well, but when Sydney had the ball I think he was more impressed by watching (John) Mikel Obi and (Nemanja) Matic work, instead of him working himself.
"So, with Ruben, it’s one step back in terms of my relationship with him. If he doesn’t know what it means to play for me and Chelsea, it’s one step back."
OUR VIEW
Mourinho's recent comments suggest the player has a long way to go to esablish himself in the manager's thoughts for a regular starting spot. Must be tempting for Chelsea if the offer a loan deal is available to send the player to Serie A for a season, but all depends how viable such a story is. Unlike their move for Salah, Loftus-Cheek remains largely unproven at such a level.
July 10
Jose Mourinho is reportedly set to hijack Manchester United’s move for Nicolas Otamendi, according to a report.
United have been tracking Otamendi for much of the summer and the Argentine is reportedly keen on a move to Old Trafford.
However, Chelsea have made contact with the player’s representatives to sound him out over a move to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues see Otamendi as a long-time replacement for John Terry, adds the report in the Metro.
OUR VIEW
It is unlikely anything will materialise here. Why? Well, Terry remains Chelsea’s first choice centre-half and has formed a fantastic relationship with Gary Cahill. Therefore any incoming centre-half will most likely be third choice. At 27, Otamendi will want to be first choice so if he does come to England it will most likely be to United.
9th JULY 2014
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2014/06/12/1255572-27102975-2560-1440.jpg)
Obi Mikel
Image credit: Eurosport
John Obi Mikel is the latest Premier League player to be heavily linked with a move to Turkish side Fenerbahce, where he could join Nani and Robin van Persie.
The Daily Star have picked up on claims by Ersin Duzen - a presenter of Turkish football show Futbol Ganlugu- that the Nigerian international has held talks with the Istanbul club.
Mikel has something of a cult status at Chelsea after nine years at the club having chosen the Blues over Manchester United in a controversial transfer from Norwegian side Lyn Oslo.
His first team chances have become increasingly scarce over the last two seasons, playing just 21 games last season.
The claims from Ersin Duzen suggest that the midfielder is now desperate for a change and has met with Fenerbahce sporting director Giuliano Terrane to discuss a deal.
OUR VIEW
After dubious beginnings, Mikel has been a very loyal servant to Chelsea over the last nine years - on the pitch and off it. He has curbed some of his attacking instincts to play a disciplined defensive role for the Blues and has won 10 major trophies as his reward.
Now 28, Mikel understandably wants to be playing more often than before rather than less and Chelsea should be able to find a suitable replacement without too much trouble. A move makes sense and if it is to Fenerbahce then they will be an even bigger source of interest to Premier League fans next season.
8th JULY 2014
According to a report in the Daily Star, the English champions will complete the signing of Brazilian winger Kenedy from Fluminese in a £6.3 million deal after he completed a medical on Tuesday.
The winger, 19, is set to sign a five-year deal with Jose Mourinho's side.
He will join his fellow countryman Nathan, who arrived at Stamford Bridge from Atletico Paranaense in May.
The report in the Daily Star also claims that Fluminese had last month sold Kenedy to an 'investment company' who are brokering the deal that will see the player join the London club..
Kenedy will apparently be loaned out to Chelsea's Duch feeder club Vitesse Arnhem next season when the transfer is finalised.
OUR VIEW
In another example of Chelsea's financial muscle and wealth, the club will pay over £6 million for a player who is only going to be an investment for the future. London is always a big draw for players from overseas, but money is also a big factor. You do wonder how much of an interest Manchester United had in the player, and how much they would be willing to go in terms of wages and a fee when Chelsea, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain become involved in the bidding. It is perhaps better to choose your battles wisely in the transfer market this weather especially when an 'investment company' can demand and raise the price for talent from abroad.
July 8
Juventus will have to pay around £42 million if they want to land Oscar from Chelsea.
Having exended his contract at the Italian champions until 2017, Allegri is apparently keen to bring Oscar to Turin from Chelsea, according to Tuttosport in Italy.
It is apparently Allergi's "dream", but media reports suggest the English champions will not be willing to do business for less than £42 million.
Oscar's Chelsea team-mate Juan Cuadrado has also been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, but that would be a loan deal with a view to buy.
OUR VIEW
This could be quite a brisk season of business for the Old Lady. It is already. Despite losing Carlos Tevez to Boca Juniors and Andrea Pirlo to New York City FC. Juventus have landed Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid, Sami Khedira on a free transfer from Real Madrid and Argentinean forward Paulo Dybala from Palermo. Will they add Oscar to the mix? Much will depend upon Paul Pogba's situation, but Juve will certainly be able to meet Chelsea's asking price for the player if Pogba departs Turin.
July 7
Mohamed Salah is to rejoin English champions Chelsea for their pre-season training camp, according to the player's agent.
The Egyptian international had spent the second half of last season on loan at Fiorentina, but has since opted not to return, despite the Viola activating their clause to bring him back.
The player had the power of veto over any move, but Fiorentina claim he responded too late, and refused to turn up for pre-season, and are therefore considering legal action.
“The player will go to the training camp with Chelsea,” Ramy Abbas told Sky.
“The English club meeet up again officially on Thursday in London, and Salah will be there with them.”
It’s believed Inter are at the head of the queue to bring him back to Italy, with Fiorentina furious with the Nerazzurri for, as they see it, turning Salah’s head.
Source: Football Italia
OUR VIEW
It is difficult to see where Mo Salah's future lies. It is almost certain not to be at Chelsea or Fiorentina wherever the player spends the next few months of pre-season training. You also wonder what the reappearance of Salah at training will do for the state of mind of the Colombian player Juan Caudrado, who arrived at Stamford Bridge in February while Salah headed in the opposite direction. Cuadrado has started only four matches for the club which tells its own story. At times towards the end of last season, Cuadrado became like the forgotten man and was hardly missed with Chelsea's squad strong enough to survive without a man who cost over £26m. Most clubs would notice such a miss, but now Chelsea will have two similar players back on their books who they don't really require. There is a fair chance both men may end up in Italy next season.
July 5
QPR striker Charlie Austin is putting other offers on hold while he waits for a Chelsea move, according to a report.
Austin, who was playing for Poole Town in 2008, scored 18 premier League goals last season for QPR.
Those exploits have attracted the interest of West Ham and Newcastle, but the Mirror claim that Austin is holding out for Chelsea to make a move.
OUR VIEW
A return of 18 Premier League goals last season is exceptional from a player playing for a struggling club. Some may question Austin’s ability to recapture that form at a Chelsea but, to his credit, Austin has scored goals everywhere he has played. Surrounded by better players at Chelsea, he could even push on and perform to an even higher standard.
From Chelsea’s point of view, a deal makes sense. He is valued at approx. £15 million by QPR, which to Chelsea is pocket change and he would in essence be their fourth choice striker behind Diego Costa, Loic Remy and new loan signing Radamel Falcao. Low cost and low risk.
JULY 4TH
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/06/07/1608405-34165520-2560-1440.jpg)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho
Image credit: Reuters
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is preparing to swoop for Jamaican wonderkid Leon Bailey, according to a report in Romanian newspaper Pro Sport.
Bailey, who currently plies his trade with Slovakian champions AS Trencin, has been linked with a move to Ajax but Chelsea are said now to be favourites to sign the player, adds the report.
Chelsea will, according to the paper, scout Bailey when his team play Romanian side Steaua Bucharest in a Champions League qualifier.
OUR VIEW
Jose Mourinho has previously stated that the Blues are no longer a buying club and he wants to construct a team based around youth development. Therefore, the fact Chelsea are linked with a rising star is not a huge surprise. What is slightly surprising, though, is the fact Chelsea’s scouting network goes as deep as the Slovakian league.
A word of caution for Bailey, the last youth prospect to make the grade at Chelsea was John Terry. He made his debut in 1998.
JULY 3rd
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/07/03/1630156-34600943-2560-1440.jpg)
Deportivo Coruna's Juanfran Moreno (R) fights for the ball with Atletico Madrid's Arda Turan during their Spanish First Division soccer match at Riazor stadium in Coruna April 18, 2015. REUTERS/Miguel Vidal
Image credit: Reuters
Arda Turan would prefer a move to Chelsea but is still waiting on a concrete offer from the Premier League champions according to AS in Spain
Atletico Madrid reportedly still have no offer on the table from Barcelona either, who have been heavily linked with the Turkey midfielder.
And Chelsea striker, Diego Costa, a former team-mate of the 28-year-old, would relish a reunion at Stamford Bridge.
In an interview with Turkish newspaper Bugun, Costa said: "I would really like to be reunited with him. It would be fantastic because he is a player that makes my job easier.
"Arda, Flilpe Luis and I achieved great success together and he really is a great guy."
OUR VIEW
It wouldn’t be surprising if Chelsea haven’t made an offer. They have great strength in midfield and have more pressing priorities, such as finding a back-up goalkeeper after the sale of Petr Cech to Arsenal.
JULY 2nd
Wolfsburg are reported to have agreed terms with the 22-year-old but have not yet been able to agree a fee with Stuttgart, reports Goal.com.
Stuttgart want €18 million for German international, who has played for Stuttgart since 2012.
"I know there’s interest from Chelsea and Wolfsburg," his agent Sahr Senesie told Kicker.
"Antonio would love to stay in Germany.”
OUR VIEW
This appears to be a classic piece of rumour mongering from Rudiger’s agent. Rudiger looks set to leave Stuttgart and wants to stay in Germany, so looks like an attempt by Rudiger’s agent to force Wolfsburg’s hand. This suggestion is that if they don’t seal a move for Rudiger then Chelsea will.
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/06/15/1615106-34299761-2560-1440.jpg)
Radamel Falcao (Manchester United) vs Leicester City - Premier League on September 21, 2014
Image credit: AFP
JULY 1st 2015
Falcao’s uncle and father have confirmed to The Guardian that a contract has been signed between the striker and Chelsea - a one-year loan deal has been agreed between Chelsea and Monaco with an option to make the move permanent next summer.
Chelsea are yet to officially announce the signing but have held three weeks of talks with Falcao’s representative, Jorge Mendes, in a bid to reach an agreement regarding the forward’s £265,000-a-week wages.
The Guardian reports that the Premier League champions will agree to pay the striker nearer £180,000-a-week with a loan fee negotiated at around £4 million.
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is another of Mendes’s clients and has said he intends to “help Falcao get back to his level” after a torrid season at Manchester United following a serious knee ligament injury.
OUR VIEW
Mourinho would love nothing more than to be the man who turned Falcao's career in English football around after United failed to get much out of the Colombian. There was little doubt that the striker could not function as he wanted to last season following his very serious knee injury, so it represents a gamble of sorts for Chelsea in taking on his mammoth wages, even if it is initially a loan deal with a fee attached. If Mourinho can somehow get Falcao back to form and restore his confidence then he has a world-class forward to back up Diego Costa. If not, well it'll just go down as a very expensive loan deal.
- - -
JUNE 30th 2015
HAS FALCAO PENNED A DEAL?
Radamel Falcao has reportedly penned a contract with Chelsea, according to Colombian TV.
It was announced on Gol Caracol that the former Manchester United striker had agreed terms at Stamford Bridge, with a deal set to be announced on July 19 or July 20.
Falcao managed just four goals in 26 appearances under Louis van Gaal last season as United opted against making his loan move permanent.
"If I can help Falcao reach his level again, I will do it,” Mourinho had previously announced.
"It hurts me that people in England think that the real Falcao is the one we saw at Manchester United."
OUR VIEW
This deal looks extremely likely – but if Falcao has signed a contract then we suspect Chelsea wouldn’t sit around for three weeks to announce it.
If he’s available on the cheap, there’s no harm in taking the Colombia as a gamble, but it all has a sliver of Fernando Torres about the deal – a player desperately trying to recapture his best form… and failing to do so.
- - -
JUNE 29th 2015
Chelsea are hoping to snatch away promising defender John Stones from Everton, according to reports.
With Raphael Varane seemingly out of the frame after new Real Madrid coach Rafa Benitez promised him first-team football, Jose Mourinho looks to be turning his attention to the England international, says the Evening Standard.
However, if Chelsea do line up a bid, they will have to pay a huge fee for the 21-year-old, who has been tipped as a future England captain.
OUR VIEW
John Terry can’t go on forever. Despite the 34-year-old’s outstanding form last season, Jose Mourinho would be wise to get in a replacement soon so he can start building him into his first-team plans. John Stones fits the bill perfectly and would slot in well next to Gary Cahill. However, Everton will not want to part with one of their prize assets – who could play on for at least a decade - and it is surely unlikely unless and astronomical sum is put in front of them.
John Stones
Image credit: PA Sport
- - -
JUNE 26TH 2015
Chelsea could end up without a decent back-up keeper for Thibaut Courtois, accoring to the latest reports.
Asmir Begovic had been the man on everyone's lips, the well-travelled Stoke goalkeeper being a very safe pair of hands - and a man thought to be happy to take the big money to sit on the bench at Stamford Bridge.
But the Bosnian-born, Canadian-raised, Portsmouth-trained 28-year-old has a new option emerging, according to the Evening Standard: Aston Villa. Apparently Tim Sherwood wants to sell Brad Guzan and put Shay Given into semi-retirement, and wants Begovic as his number one.
That means Chelsea will have to look elsewhere for a back-up for Courtois - and with Rob Green also keen to stay put (at QPR) having got back into England contention, the Blues scouts have a bit of work to do. Otherwise, a serious injury to Courtois could potentially derail their title defence.
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2014/09/04/1307352-28140157-2560-1440.jpg)
Asmir Begovic
Image credit: PA Sport
OUR VIEW
Not being able to sign your, er, first-choice, second-choice goalkeeper isn't the end of the world. Chelsea did well with a player like Mark Schwarzer previously so they are bound to be able to find someone half decent knocking about. It's hardly a crucial position.
- - -
JUNE 25TH 2015
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is prepared to offer Oscar to Juventus if it means getting his hands on playmaker Paul Pogba, according to a report in the Daily Mirror.
Juve's manager Massimo Allegri has admitted in the past that he likes Oscar "very much", and that, "He is one of those players who can make a difference in Europe."
Pogba's agent Mino Railoa has apparently been in contact with both player and club over a deal.
Additionally, Chelsea are reported to be hot favourites to sign Arda Turan from Atletico Madrid, despite interest from PSG and Manchester United.
United are said to have made a huge bid, but the well-worn path between Atletico and Chelsea could give Mourinho the edge he needs.
- - -
JUNE 24TH 2015
CHELSEA TARGET ANTOINE GRIEZMANN
Reports from Italy suggest Chelsea will offer Atletico Madrid €50m plus Mohamed Salah for French international forward Antoine Griezmann.
Italian daily Gazzetta dello Sport say that Jose Mourinho has identified the forward as his priority target this summer and the Premier League champions are willing to do pay what it takes to get him.
Bayern Munich and Monaco are also said to be interested in the former Real Sociedad man, despite Griezmann insisting his future was at Vicente Calderon.
Salah was signed by Chelsea in January 2014 but struggled to get into the Blues first team and was sent on-loan to Fiorentina in January this year.
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/equinoxe/2015/05/06/1480799-31613130-2560-1440.jpg)
Mohamed Salah has not impressed Jose Mourinho
Image credit: Eurosport
OUR VIEW
Antoine Griezmann is one of the most exciting players in Europe at the moment so if Chelsea can agree a deal for him it would be a major coup. 22 goals in 37 league matches this season show that he would add potency to the Chelsea attack but, it has to be asked, where exactly would he play?
Predominantly a left-sided player, Griezmann would be best in the spots occupied by Eden Hazard and Diego Costa. He could be played on he right, but with Willian and Cuadrado at the club already it doesn't exactly seem like a priority for the Blues.
JUNE 19TH 2015
KAKUTA'S LONDON NIGHTMARE ENDS
Sevilla have completed the signing of Gael Kakuta from Chelsea on a free transfer.
The French midfielder, 23, has agreed a four-year contract with the Europa League winners and passed a medical on Friday ahead of completing his Bosman switch.
"If I’m here then it’s because of what I did last season [with Rayo Vallecano]," he said at his official unveiling.
"I hope to show my quality [at Sevilla] and perform even better than I did last year."
OUR VIEW
When Gael Kakuta arrived off the bench to make his debut at Stamford Bridge in November 2009, he showed enough energy and tricks to suggest he was primed for a bright future.
That future never materialised.
At 23, and following his solid loan showing at Rayo Vallecano, he still has time to reignite has career – one that promised much, but has delivered little thus far – and potentially force his way into the France senior setup.
- - -
JUNE 18th 2015
Colombian striker Radamel Falcao told journalists "you will know soon" when he was asked about a possible loan move from Monaco to Chelsea.
The 29-year-old spent a largely disappointing year on loan at Manchester United last season, but Chelsea seem undeterred in their efforts to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
Falcao is currently with the Colombia squad at Copa America but a move is expected to be confirmed as soon as their involvement in the tournament is over.
Speaking after Wednesday night's surprise 1-0 win over Brazil, Falcao said:
"I'm just thinking of the Copa America and the squad - my staff are taking care of [the transfer]. It could happen, you will know very soon."
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/06/11/1611382-34225236-2560-1440.jpg)
Falcao
Image credit: Reuters
Two of Falcao's potential Chelsea teammates who were in the Brazil squad also gave enthusiastic responses about the move.
"I played with Radamel Falcao at Atletico and he is a great player," said Felipe Luis.
"I'm not sure if it's official but I'm sure that he would be very welcome and it would help Chelsea a lot to win trophies."
Brazilian midfielder Willian added, "Falcao is a great player, a striker that knows how to score and I'm sure it will help us a lot; I hope he can be happy at Chelsea."
- - -
JUNE 16th 2015
Chelsea have identified Stoke City's Asmir Begovic as the man they want to replace Petr Cech as their backup goalkeeper.
The Bosnian international has been one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the league over the last five years and is know to be open to a move.
With just one year remaining on his contract at the Britannia Stadium, Chelsea should be able to get the 27-year-old for a reduced fee.
Whether he is interested in a move to be a backup goalkeeper remains to be seen, with Thibaut Courtois firmly in place as Chelsea's first choice stopper.
Asmir Begovic
Image credit: PA Sport
OUR VIEW
Signing Asmir Begovic would be an excellent move for Chelsea considering they already have Courtois at the club. While Begovic may not be quite at the level of Petr Cech, he is still a very high quality goalkeeper and an outstanding option as backup. It's debatable whether it would be a good move for Begovic's career in the long-term, however.
- - -
JUNE 15th 2015
Sergio Ramos is said to be unhappy at Real Madrid which may prompt his former manager Jose Mourinho to launch a bid for the defender, reports the Daily Telegraph.
The report does not go into detail regarding the 29-year-old’s unhappiness but does state that the Spanish international is angling for a new contract, one said to be worth an eye-watering £10m-per-year.
"For now he still has two years of contract. We await the call of the club but Real Madrid have not called me,” said his agent, Rene Ramos.
"For now there are no talks. Perhaps it is best if he doesn't finish his career at Real Madrid but at another club. We never know.
"Football is changing so fast – you must enjoy the moment."
OUR VIEW
Ramos would represent a fine signing for any elite-level football club – however, his signing would represent a dramatic transfer policy turnaround from Chelsea, who over the last few seasons have invested in youth with high sell-on values.
Furthermore, at 29 he would be a relatively short term solution to Chelsea’s aging defence. Add in the fact that he is after a prohibitive £10m-per-year and it makes this proposed transfer a bit of a no-go for the Blues.
- - -
JUNE 14th 2015
KAKUTA LEAVING FOR SEVILLA
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2013/09/11/1090664-18709296-2560-1440.jpg)
Chelsea's Gael Kakuta (Reuters)
Image credit: Reuters
Chelsea winger Gael Kakuta looks set to be sold to Sevilla, with reports in Spain claiming the deal will be done next week.
Spanish newspaper AS reports that the 23-year-old - who has made just 16 appearances since moving to the club as a teenager in a controversial deal back in 2007 - will move to the Europa League champions for a mere £2 million.
If the rumour proves to be true, Kakuta's eight-year spell at Chelsea - most of which has been spent on loan elsewhere - will finally be over.
- - -
JUNE 11th 2015
CUADRADO SET TO STAY AT CHELSEA
Despite speculation linking Juan Cuadrado with a move back to Italy this summer, Blues manager Jose Mourinho says that the Ecuadorian winger will not be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge.
“Cuadrado is not going anywhere this summer,” Mourinho told DirecTV.
“People don't know Cuadrado yet, I have seen him many times when we were both in Italy, me at Inter and him at Udinese.
"Because of that I have a lot of hopes for him for next season. I hope in the Copa America he can regain his self-esteem, his ego and that he has that joy of playing.”
The Colombian only arrived from Fiorentina in January but scored no goals in his 17 appearances for the Blues.
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/05/24/1574709-33491555-2560-1440.jpg)
Juan Cuadrado in action against Stoke
Image credit: Panoramic
OUR VIEW:
It's only fair that Chelsea give Juan Cuadrado more time to adapt to the Premier League after he moved to the club from Fiorentina in January. Expecting a player to adapt immediately, especially mid-season, is naive and Chelsea fans should see a much better player next season. It's easy to see why the club may be tempted to sell with players like Raheem Sterling available but sticking with Cuadrado is definitely the right call for now.
- - -
JUNE 8th 2015
MOURINHO CONFIRMS STRIKER SEARCH
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says that the club are in the market for a striker this summer, with Radamel Falcao heavily rumoured to be his primary target.
With Didier Drogba bringing his second spell at the club to a close, the Blues have just Diego Costa and Loic Remy as options in attack.
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/06/03/1600170-34000791-2560-1440.jpg)
Didier Drogba
Image credit: Eurosport
Speaking to the Sunday Times, the Portuguese coach insisted that was not enough.
"We have to buy a striker because we want to have three strikers of a good level," he said.
"This season is about improving the squad, bringing players to make us more consistent, so we don't go through difficult periods like last season when we had crucial injuries. We have to try and protect that situation by adding two or three players."
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2015/05/26/1577656-33550495-2560-1440.jpg)
Radamel Falcao managed just four goals and four assists for Manchester United
Image credit: Imago
OUR VIEW:
Two things are certain when it comes to Radamel Falcao - one is that he was extremely disappointing for Manchester United last season, with four goals in 26 games, and the other is that he has been an absolutely outstanding striker. Manchester United baulked at Monaco's demands for a permanent transfer but Chelsea may feel they can get the Colombian for less. If they do take him on as a squad player, on terms they can afford, then he may be worth it. There are no guarantees with Radamel Falcao now though, and he will be a risk.
Scan me
Related Topics
Share this article
Advertisement
Advertisement