Behdad Eghbali
Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali(Image: Robin Jones)
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Chelsea have struck a pre-agreement with Atalanta to sign defender Honest Anahor in the summer of 2027, sources say, with the Blues finding a clever way around the Premier League's loan rules.
Crystal Palace are set to sign the 18-year-old defender on loan for the remainder of the season from Atalanta with Chelsea keen on him gaining Premier League experience. According to Premier League rules: "Premier League clubs cannot loan to another Premier League club a player they have acquired in the same transfer window."
With Ahanor officially on Atalanta's books still, Chelsea have found a loophole. The Blues will be keeping a close eye on how the defender progresses in his debut season in England before making a decision over his future next summer.
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Chelsea will pay Atalanta a total package of £40million for the teenager to move to Stamford Bridge in less than 12 months' time. Ahanor is set to boost Chelsea's defensive ranks in 2027, although he could be loaned out again, depending on how he progresses during his time in the Premier League this term.
The west Londoners share a strong relationship with their city rivals and have already conducted business with them this summer, with Axel Disasi moving there on a season-long loan deal. Chelsea wanted to sell the Frenchman this summer but in the end the Blues were forced to settle for a loan deal with no option/obligation.
Elsewhere, Tosin Adarabioyo could still depart Chelsea before this week's transfer deadline. The out-of-favour Blues defender has admirers from England and abroad but nothing is advanced at the time of writing regarding a departure.