Chelsea agree pay cut with players
Chelsea have agreed to a 10% pay cut with their first-team squad.
football.london understands that talks were led by club captain Cesar Azpilicueta and club director Marina Granovskaia, discussions were amicable and the players negotiated for a 10% reduction and have also been told there will be no incentives to recoup the money.
Meanwhile, Blues head coach Frank Lampard is taking a cut of 25% and those talks were with Granovskaia and separate to players.
This was first reported by the Telegraph and the cuts are expected to last for four months from May.
As expected, Chelsea have not furloughed any off-field staff and have committed to paying their casual matchday workers, including caterers, stewards and hospitality workers.
Ziyech to benefit from Coutinho transfer
Speculation continues to grow over a potential return to the Premier League for Philippe Coutinho, with the Brazilian reportedly offered to Chelsea among other clubs.
His arrival and price tag would essentially mean he’s as near to a guaranteed starter as is possible, and there would be knock-on effects throughout the squad.
So which players would benefit most if he does sign on at the Bridge?
Karl Matchett takes a look at how things could change with the Brazilian on board, with Hakim Ziyech set to benefit.
"If Ziyech takes some time to adapt to new surroundings, team-mates and the league, as a major attacking signing there would be quick questions asked of him - but Coutinho, a more expensive and bigger name transfer, would relieve some of that immediate expectancy.”
Which players will most affected by Coutinho transfer
With a move for Coutinho on the horizon, football.London ’s Chelsea correspondent Oliver Harbord takes a look at which players could be most affected by the Brazilian’s arrival.
On Mason Mount
"Mount has had an impressive first season in Chelsea's first team, and any move for Coutinho could shift around the England international’s role."
On Ruben Loftus-Cheek
"A move for Coutinho would also affect the way that Loftus-Cheek is used and moved around the squad."
On Callum Hudson-Odoi
"With Ziyech coming in, plus Pulisic looking to push for more time, it means Hudson-Odoi’s playing time could be affected.”
And on Ross Barkley
"The 26-year-old could well make a move away from Stamford Bridge if the right price does come in for him."
