Here are your Chelsea morning headlines for Saturday, October 10.
Olivier Giroud confirms potential Chelsea summer exit
Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud has revealed he rejected a move to Italy ahead of the 2020/21 season but stated he could move on from the club in 2021.
The 34-year old is out of contract at Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, and despite making 18 Premier League appearances in 2019/20, his role is set to be reduced following a host of big name arrivals .
However, the French international was pragmatic about his situation, stating he is confident of extending his career for a few more years before retirement.
“I’ve been close to moving to Serie A," he told RMC Sport .
“They appreciate experienced players there, but the transfer didn’t materialise.
“For the future we will see what happens. I will decide by evaluating the opportunities I have.
“I’m not ruling out anything, but for now I don’t see me returning to Ligue 1.
“I’d like to play at the highest level in Europe for another two or three years, then maybe I’ll go to the United States.”
Giroud has made 91 Blues appearances in all competitions following his 2017 move from Arsenal, netting 29 goals.
West Ham offer Declan Rice bumper new contract to block Chelsea interest
West Ham United will begin negotiations on a big money contract extension for Declan Rice amid growing transfer interest from former club Chelsea.
The England international has been heavily linked with a move back to Stamford Bridge, after being released as a 15-year-old, before joining the Hammers.
Despite Chelsea’s interest in the 21-year old, West Ham held firm in their resolve to keep him this summer and as per reports from The Sun , David Moyes’ side are aiming to make him their top earner.
West Ham currently value Rice at around £70million, and the Hammers could offer him in excess of £120,000 a week to keep him at the London Stadium.
Chelsea could potentially reignite their interest in the January transfer window, but West Ham are unlikely to lower their asking price for Rice.
Edouard Mendy to miss Southampton clash through injury
New Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy will miss the Blues return to Premier League action against Southampton next weekend after picking up an injury on international duty.
The 28-year-old made his Chelsea debut in the 4-0 win over Crystal Palace, but he will now sit out the visit of the Saints after suffering a thigh strain in a training session with the Senegal squad.
He returned to London following the injury, with tests confirming the injury is expected to keep him out of action for 10 days.
The former Rennes star will be replaced by either Kepa Arrizabalaga or Willy Caballero against Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side, but he should be fit for the Champions League group stage opener at home to Sevilla on October 20.
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