Chelsea’s ambition in this summer’s transfer market are very clear, as they bid to close the gap to Liverpool and Manchester City with key additions.
The Blues appear to be on the brink of signing one or two more players, as well as Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner, who have already signed.
Frank Lampard will be determined to build on an impressive start to life as Chelsea boss, finishing in the top-four despite not being able to sign players last summer.
However, with the cheque book open, here are the latest Chelsea transfer stories emerging.
Messi claim
Rio Ferdinand has claimed on social media that Chelsea head coach Frank Lampard is eyeing an audacious move for Lionel Messi.
The La Liga side have announced that the Argentine has requested to leave the Nou Camp this summer.
The six-time Ballon d'Or winner has endured a tumultuous season that saw his Barca side lose out to Real Madrid in the title race, and culminated in an embarrassing defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final.
Chelsea have been consistently linked with a move for the 33-year-old but the Blues would reportedly face competition for his signature.
But Ferdinand posted on Twitter on Tuesday evening that he believes former teammate Lampard is plotting a sensational move for the Barcelona legend.
He wrote: "Some window this if Lamps pulls this off!!".
Sarr deal close
Chelsea look set to win the race to sign former Nice defender Malang Sarr on a free transfer this summer.
French media outlet Telefoot, is reporting that the Blues are now the favourites to win the race to sign the 21-year-old this summer.
The report adds that Chelsea have offered Sarr a four-year deal after the centre-back turned down a new contract from Nice and opted to leave the club.
Silva medical
Thiago Silva will have a medical at Chelsea on Thursday ahead of a move to Stamford Bridge.
However, in a fresh twist, it is now being reported that PSG boss Thomas Tuchel wanted Silva to stay in Paris, but the club hierarchy were keen to move on the 35-year-old.
A report from Sky Sports claims Silva’s relationship with PSG’s sporting director Leonardo has deteriorated and the Brazilian wants to move to Chelsea.
