The summer transfer window is officially open and Chelsea now have a huge opportunity before the Club World Cup. The market has its shutters up for the first time since the beginning of February and will allow clubs to bolster their squad.
In the Blues’ case, they have an opportunity to add reinforcements before the end-of-season competition, which could see the Stamford Bridge club land a lucrative windfall from winning the competition. Despite being fresh off their UEFA Conference League triumph over Real Betis, Chelsea will embark on their pursuit to be crowned world champions again in the new-look competition.
Chelsea kick-off their Group D campaign in 15 days when they take on Mexican side Leon.
By then, they could have a host of new faces through the door. With that being said, Football. London has taken a look at the main talking points and headlines surrounding the Blues.
Liam Delap set for Chelsea medical
The Athletic have reported that Liam Delap is planning to undergo his medical ahead of a £30million move from relegated side Ipswich Town.
The Blues met the release clause in the England talent’s contract which will see him immediately bounce back into the Premier League after Tractor Boys slipped back into the Championship.
Chelsea look set to land the England under-21 international after fending off interest from Manchester United, Newcastle United and Everton.
The outlet has added that Nottingham Forest, AC Milan and Juventus all expressed interest in the powerhouse but are said to have been informed of Delap’s intention to move to west London.
football.london says: Chelsea have a really good opportunity to build upon what Enzo Maresca has put in place. With European silverware in the bag and resting nicely in the trophy cabinet, they have the perfect springboard to jump from with Champions League qualification secured too. Paris Saint-Germain are basking in their Champions League success, and their blueprint of signing top-quality young players could be a crucial path to follow for the Blues to ensure they do not stagnate.
Chelsea ahead of Liverpool in Hugo Ekitike battle
BILD’s Christian Falk has claimed that Liverpool trail Chelsea in the pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike.
The Anfield club have emerged as a possible contender to sign the France under-21 international.
Reports have suggested that Liverpool have entered the race to sign him which has prompted Chelsea to accelerate their charge after being made aware of the interest from their Premier League rivals.
Now Falk is reporting that Chelsea lead the chase with Arne Slot’s side trailing.
football.london says: What message would that send to the rest of the Premier League when you’re beating the champions to their signings? Ekitike appears to be the calibre of player that is becoming more prevalent in Europe and his quality is clear to see. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is a man in demand but it’s no surprise to see Ekitike, another Bundesliga standout, be mooted as one of the latest big-money Bundesliga export.
