Maresca is said to want a new keeperMaresca is said to want a new keeper
Maresca is said to want a new keeper | Getty Images
All the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Chelsea as they look to wrap up deals in the early window.
Chelsea are now battling to get early business done during the special 10-day early transfer window that has been put in place during the FIFA Club World Cup. Before the Blues get players back from international duty ready for that trip to the United States, they will battle to get some of their early business done, with plenty of deals also expected later in the summer.
It’s likely to be a busy summer for Maresca and the club’s recruitment staff, with the Blues likely hoping to close the gap on this season’s Premier League winners Liverpool. With that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Stamford Bridge.
Keeper choice
Chelsea are said to have decided on a goalkeeper for next season with doubts remaining over the future of Robert Sanchez. According to Fabrizio Romano, AC Milan stopper Mike Maignan is the first choice, with Milan reportedly demanding £33.7million.
Romano has tweeted: “EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea approach AC Milan to sign Mike Maignan as new goalkeeper. Mike Maignan has still not signed new contract at the club and Chelsea are now aware of the situation. He’s always been high on Chelsea list with clubs in talks, decision up to Milan.” Maignan’s contract is up in 2026.
Felix boost
Chelsea are reportedly engaged in talks over the sale of Joao Felix, who has failed to make an impression after returning to the club on a permanent deal for as much as £45million.
Felix spent the second half of this season out on loan with Milan after struggling and failing to convince Maresca during the opening months of the season. Record are now reporting that the Blues are in talks with Benfica over a permanent deal that would see the Portugal international return to one of his nation’s capital clubs six years after he left for Barcelona.
Felix has not truly convinced at any of his permanent clubs since leaving Benfica, and so his return may be a logical move. Chelsea will surely take a hit on their £45million investment.
Abramovich threatened with legal action
Former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich could be sued over his £2.5billion sale of the club. The sale was made while Abramovich’s assets were frozen, and it was agreed that the proceeds would go towards Ukrainian victims of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Abramovich wants the proceeds to support victims on both sides of the conflict, and due to the fact the money is legally his - despite it being frozen - the UK Government cannot allocate the funds as it wishes.
With no agreement found to this point, the UK Government is threatening legal action to resolve the issue. In a joint statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: "While the door for negotiations will remain open, we are fully prepared to pursue this through the courts if required. The government is determined to see the proceeds from the sale of Chelsea Football Club reach humanitarian causes in Ukraine, following Russia's illegal full-scale invasion. We are deeply frustrated that it has not been possible to reach agreement on this with Mr Abramovich so far".
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