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Chelsea opted to part ways with Mauricio Pochettino this summer following an underwhelming 2023-24 campaign. The Blues have since handed the reins of the first team to Enzo Maresca.
Meanwhile, the London giants are keen to sign Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori this summer. Elsewhere, the club are ready to cash in on full-back Ben Chilwell.
On that note, here's a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on July 5, 2024:
Chelsea remain in race for Riccardo Calafiori, says Fabrizio Romano
Chelsea remain on the hunt for Riccardo Calafiori, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The Italian defender is a sought-after man this year, after an impressive campaign with Bologna.
The Blues parted ways with Thiago Silva this summer, with the Brazilian departing following the end of his contract. Enzo Maresca has added former Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo to his kitty but remains on the hunt for more quality signings. Calafiori has emerged as an option.
However, in his column for Caught Offside, Romano said that Arsenal have moved ahead in the race for the 22-year-old.
“The big story of the last few days is with Riccardo Calafiori … now Arsenal have presented their proposal to the Italy international – it’s a long-term contract, the salary is not an issue at all, and they also presented their project to the player, and he is open to joining Arsenal in case they can reach an agreement with Bologna,” wrote Romano.
He continued:
“So, there is already a green light from Calafiori to Arsenal, but what about Chelsea?
"My understanding is that Chelsea are prepared to approach Bologna, and that they will try to include players in the negotiation. It’s a different strategy, but Chelsea are still there, even if Arsenal are the favourites at the moment.”
Romano previously said that Juventus are also eyeing the Italian with interest.
Blues ready to sell Ben Chilwell
Chelsea are willing to offload Ben Chilwell this summer, according to TEAMtalk. The English left-back arrived at Stamford Bridge from Leicester City in 2020 with a big reputation but hasn't lived up to expectations.
His fitness record has been a concern for the Bluesm and it now appears that the club have run out of patience. The London giants are planning to offload players to raise funds this summer and are ready to cash in on the 27-year-old. He's under contract at Stamford Bridge till 2027.
Maresca reportedly prefers Marc Cucurella for the left-back position. The full-back is enjoying a stellar Euro 2024 campaign with La Roja. Chilwell, meanwhile, failed to make it to Southgate's squad for the tournament.
Kepa Arrizabalaga wanted in the Middle East
Kepa Arrizabalaga is wanted in Saudi Arabia this summer, according to Rudy Galetti. The Spanish goalkeeper spent the 2023-24 campaign on loan at Real Madrid.
Initially signed to deal with Thibaut Courtois' injury, Kepa dropped behind Andriy Lunin in the pecking order as the season progressed. The 29-year-old has returned to Stamford Bridge at the end of his loan spell but is unlikely to stay.
Recent reports have suggested that Los Blancos could target the player if Lunin departs this summer. Galetti reports that Kepa will also have the option to move to the Middle East if he desires.
Al Ittihad reportedly have their eyes on the Spaniard and have even approached him to discuss a deal. However, the Saudi side have Bento as their priority target and will only move for Kepa if they fail to sign the Brazilian.
