FIFA statement suggests Ziyech to Chelsea delay
FIFA has released a statement regarding player contracts that is set to impact the Blues and the signing of Hakim Ziyech.
With deals usually ending on June 30, and new contracts starting on July 1, the current suspension of football across the globe has prompted football’s governing body to make a change.
"Expiring player contracts usually end when the season ends, with a termination date that coincides with the end of the season.” The statement reads. “With the current suspension of play in most countries, it is now obvious that the current season will not end when people thought it would.
"Therefore, it is proposed that contracts be extended until such time that the season does actually end.
"A similar principle applies to contracts due to begin when the new season starts, meaning the entry into force of such contracts is delayed until the next season actually does start.”
With Ziyech originally set to move to Stamford Bridge from Ajax in July, the rule change now means his arrival will be pushed back.
Kovacic lauded despite missing out on team of the year
Blues midfielder Matteo Kovacic has been praised by Jamie Carragher, who admits it was a difficult decision to omit him from his team of the season.
The Croatian has been one of the stars of Frank Lampard’s side this season as they push for a top-four finish and a return to the Champions League.
Former Liverpool star and Sky Sports pundit Carragher named Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, Reds' skipper Jordan Henderson and Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish in his all-star team but says the Chelsea man was close to making the cut.
"Huge improvement on last year, some great performances especially first half at Everton were he was outstanding.” Carragher tweeted.
What role Coutinho could play if Blues move occurs
Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho has again been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
Reports suggest Chelsea could pay a loan fee to bring the 27-year-old back to the Premier League following his 2018 departure from Liverpool.
Coutinho, currently on loan at Bayern Munich, looks to be out of the picture at Barcelona despite the Catalan club spending £140 million on his signature two years ago.
Should the move take place, Football London’s Oliver Harbord has taken a deep dive into looking at where he could fit into Frank Lampard’s team.
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