Double Deal
Reports suggest that Chelsea are close to completing a double deal for Roma players Emerson Palmieri and Edin Dzeko. The deal to sign Emerson seems to be all but done, with the Brazilian reportedly happy to make the move to London. Dzeko’s deal might drag on a little bit, however, as the Blues continue to discuss their options of signing the 31-year-old. Reports have claimed that Dzeko’s agent is expected in London in the next few days to discuss the move. Kenedy’s loan move to Newcastle is set to be confirmed on Tuesday, meaning that the signing of Emerson is imminent.
Target Men Targeted
Dzeko aside, there have been many rumours linking Chelsea with a target man. Last week, it seemed like Andy Carroll was heading to Stamford Bridge. An ankle injury to the West Ham player has ruled that out, leading to Peter Crouch’s name being touted with a move. Leicester’s Islam Slimani has recently been linked with a loan move to West London, as he’s fallen out of favour at the King Power. Ashley Barnes of Burnley was the next player who Chelsea are said to be interested in, as they look to sign an English striker. Marko Arnautovic was briefly linked with a move to the Blues, after impressing for West Ham in recent weeks.
Courtois Battle
If Thibaut Courtois does not sign a new contract at Chelsea, there will be a battle between Real Madrid and PSG for the Belgian’s signature. The goalkeeper’s contract at the club runs out in 2019, and talks have been going on but no deal has been signed yet. This could lead to two European heavyweights fighting it out to bring Courtois to their club. Whatever move the Belgian takes, it is claimed that he would become the world’s best-paid goalkeeper. Real’s interest in Courtois has increased, with Kepa Arrizabalaga deciding to renew his contract at Athletic Bilbao.