Chelsea’s hopes of Champions League qualification for next season hit a slight bump in the road on Wednesday night.
The Blues fell to a shock 3-2 defeat at West Ham, putting the brakes on their top four ambitions and opening the door once again to the chasing pack.
They of course still remain in a healthy position, and that could have a big effect on their business in the transfer window this summer, with more players expected to join following the additions of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner.
Here are the latest transfer rumours and gossip coming from Stamford Bridge.
Sancho boost
Chelsea’s hopes of signing Jadon Sancho this summer have been given a big boost with the news that Manchester City will not be in the running.
The England international left the Etihad Stadium back in 2017, and has gone on to become a pivotal figure at Borussia Dortmund, scoring 17 goals and registering 17 assists in 32 Bundesliga appearances this season.
He’s been tipped with a move away from Germany this summer, with Chelsea and Manchester United among the frontrunners for his signature – but it seems Pep Guardiola’s side won’t be in the race.
“No, no. No, he decided to leave, why should he decide to come back?" Guardiola said on the matter, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News.
Blues prioritising Rice
Chelsea are prioritising a deal for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice this summer, according to reports.
The 21-year-old started his career at Stamford Bridge before being released as a teenager, with the Hammers snapping him up shortly after.
Rice was in the side on Wednesday night as West Ham inflicted a shock 3-2 defeat on the Blues, but he may well have been auditioning for his new side.
According to the Athletic, Chelsea are making Rice their priority this summer, with Frank Lampard looking to utilise him as a centre-half.
Digne targeted as Chilwell alternative
Chelsea and Manchester City have identified Everton’s Lucas Digne as a potential alternative should either be unable to land Ben Chilwell this summer.
The Blues have been heavily linked with a move for the Leicester fullback, with Lampard making left-back one of his top priorities for the transfer window.
Guardiola is also looking for reinforcements in that position, with ongoing concerns over the reliability of Benjamin Mendy.
Chilwell’s hefty price tag could be stumbling block though, with the Foxes reportedly holding out for £75m, which could see Digne come into the mix, according to ESPN.
