Chelsea return to Premier League action in just over two weeks’ time and Frank Lampard is looking to sharpen up his squad before the trip to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Lampard is preparing for his second season in charge at Stamford Bridge, and already added five new faces to his squad this summer.
There were two early bits of business for the Blues, in the shape of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner, who are still being linked with a host of new players as they look to make progress from their fourth-placed finish last season.
With that being said, here are the very latest Chelsea-related transfer rumours from across the morning.
Mendy bid
Chelsea have reportedly made an improved £18million bid for Rennes goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Frank Lampard is searching for a new keeper after dropping Kepa Arrizabalaga towards the end of last season, preferring to use his stand-in Willy Caballero.
Mendy has been identified as the ideal signing after he helped Rennes to a third-placed finish in Ligue 1 and the club's first ever Champions League placing.
Having seen a £15million bid rejected earlier this week, Lampard's side have returned with an £18m bid and are awaiting Rennes' response, according to Goal.
Donnanruma talks
Chelsea have started talks to sign AC Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma according to a latest report.
Alongside Mendy, the Blues are interested in the Italian shot-stopper to improve their options in goal.
Football Insider claims Chelsea are beginning to sound out a move for Donnarumma despite bidding for Mendy.
Reports earlier this week also touted Lille’s Mike Maignan as a potential target.
Rice demand
Lampard wants Chelsea to complete a cut-price deal for West Ham star Declan Rice.
According to The Sun, the Chelsea boss has told the club he wants Rice in ahead of the new season, feeling the England international could prove a crucial component in the midfield.
The Blues have been on a spending spree this summer, already spending £125m, and the expected arrival of Kai Havertz could push that figure over £200m.
But they may not be done there, Lampard believing Chelsea could convince West Ham to shave a chunk off their £80m valuation of their star midfielder.
