Here are the Chelsea morning headlines for Wednesday, July 22.
Homing in
Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola has bought a new home in London amid speculation he could join Chelsea in the summer transfer window.
The Frenchman is available after spending a year on loan at Real Madrid as Thibaut Courtois’ understudy.
Real are not interested in making Areola’s stay permanent, and the Daily Star claims this could open up the possibility of a move to Stamford Bridge, with the Blues believed to be tracking the 27-year-old.
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard remains unconvinced by current number one Kepa Arrizabalaga and is looking at alternatives, although finding a buyer for the £72m goalkeeper could prove difficult.
Dog gone?
Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Kai Havertz has posted a picture of his “best buddy” on Instagram as speculation continues to swirl around a possible move to Chelsea this summer.
According to The Athletic, Chelsea are close to agreeing a deal for the 21-year-old, which could cost as much as €80m.
Havertz has remained quiet throughout the speculation, but did take to Instagram to post an image of his dog on a beach.
All Said and done
Brentford boss Thomas Frank has admitted Chelsea transfer target Said Benrahma is likely to leave the club this summer if they miss out on promotion to the Premier League.
The Bees can still win automatic promotion if they beat Barnsley on Wednesday (7.30pm kick-off) while West Brom drop points to Queens Park Rangers, but the Danish coach admits keeping players like Benrahma will be tougher without top flight football.
“We know how Brentford works, so it's likely one player will go, but let's see,” Frank admitted. “The ultimate target is going up and then everything will be fine and we won't have to discuss if anyone is going to leave us.”
