Chelsea return to action when they host Djurgardens in the second leg of their Conference League semi-final on Thursday. Enzo Maresca's side boast a three-goal advantage heading into the game at Stamford Bridge, after beating the Swedish side 4-1 in the first leg.
Goals from Jadon Sancho, Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson's brace have given the Blues one foot in the final later this month. However, Maresca is aware that Chelsea have to complete the job. Should the Blues progress, they will face either Real Betis or Fiorentina in Wroclaw, Poland on Wednesday, May 28.
While Chelsea's main focus is no doubt on progressing to the Conference League final and finishing in the Premier League top-five, the Blues have one eye on the summer transfer window. Maresca is keen to strengthen his squad and look to improve on an inconsistent season.
Here is the latest transfer news concering Chelsea...
Huijsen race
Chelsea are the frontrunners in the race to sign Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, according to TEAMtalk. The Blues want the 20-year-old but face competition from Liverpool and Real Madrid for his signature.
However, it's claimed that Enzo Maresca's side have offered Huijsen the more tempting financial package and there is confidence at Stamford Bridge that he is going to join the Blues. That's not to suggest that a move to Anfield is off the table, but Huijsen is 'sold on the project' presented to him in west London.
FL says: Chelsea no doubt need to sign a new centre-back this summer. Levi Colwill has impressed on the left-side of the back two, but the Blues have struggled to find a consistent performer alongside him.
Wesley Fofana is Maresca's first-choice in that position, but the former Leicester man has had a number of injury issues and cannot stay fit. Trevoh Chalobah and Benoit Badiashile have both been used there, but it does feel as though Chelsea need an upgrade and a world-class option.
Although he is not there yet, Huijsen has the potential to become one of the best central defenders on the planet. Signing him, especially for £50million - his release clause, would be an astute piece of business.
Veiga claim
Juventus are determined to keep hold of Renato Veiga and sign him on a permanent deal this summer, according to Tuttosport via JuventusNews24. The on loan Chelsea defender arrived in Turin during the January transfer window as a replacement for Gleison Bremer, who tore his Anterior Cruciate Ligament.
Veiga was thrown into Thiago Motta's starting XI, and although he has made a couple of mistakes, he has impressed. Juventus are hoping to re-sign the Portuguese and keep him beyond the end of the season. However, it's added that Chelsea do not want to lose him and view him as key for the future.
FL says: Veiga didn't feature much at Chelsea during the first half of the season, but when he did, he was a consistent performer. I felt it was a questionable move to allow him out on loan, especially considering the Blues' defensive issues, and I don't think they should let him depart for good.
A solid six months out loan in a top European league has aided Veiga's development and he can come back and become an integral part of Maresca's plans for next season. They should reject any approach from Juventus.
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Cole Palmer of Chelsea celebrates scoring his team's second goal from the penalty spot with team mate Jadon Sancho during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at Stamford Bridge on September 28, 2024
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