Here are your Chelsea morning headlines for Friday, 18 September.
Chelsea’s next three loan exits lined up after Conor Gallagher move
Chelsea have their next three loan departures already lined up following the announcement that Conor Gallagher has joined West Bromwich Albion on a season-long loan.
The Baggies made the announcement on Thursday that the highly rated Chelsea youngster had signed for them on loan, with three more Chelsea players expected to leave on loan in the coming days.
Davide Zappacosta is believed to be close to joining Genoa on loan, with reports in Italy claiming a deal has been agreed with the Serie A club for the signing of the former Torino full back.
Tiemoue Bakayoko is also expected to be on his way out of Stamford Bridge, with the French midfielder close to returning to AC Milan on an initial loan basis with an option to buy, while Lewis Baker is on the verge of his eighth loan spell away from Chelsea.
Agent confirms Chelsea deal for Ligue 1 goalkeeper is close
Edouard Mendy’s agent has confirmed a deal for the Rennes goalkeeper to sign for Chelsea is close, with the two clubs reaching an agreement for the transfer of the 28-year-old.
Frank Lampard has been on the lookout for a new goalkeeper this summer as concerns over Kepa Arrizabalaga persist and it now appears the Blues are set to get their wish.
Mendy’s agent, Djily Dieng, confirmed that a deal could even be concluded as early as Friday (as per the Metro).
“The two parties have come to an agreement,” he said.
“All that’s left is the formalisation. It could even be done tomorrow [Friday], if all goes well. Afterwards, the player himself will come to finalise everything, including having his medical examination.”
Chelsea expected to make bid for West Ham midfielder
Chelsea are set to make an offer for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice as soon as a new goalkeeper has been signed.
Rennes shot-stopper Mendy is widely believed to be close to signing for the Stamford Bridge club and as soon as that deal is concluded the Daily Express claims the Blues will turn their attentions to Rice.
Lampard is a fan of the 21-year-old, with the Chelsea manager making Rice a top target in a summer which has already seen the Blues fork out over £200million on new signings.
West Ham have always maintained Rice isn’t for sale, demanding a fee of £73million for the England international to deter any potential suitors.
