Fabrizio Romano reported that Chelsea have been set back in their pursuit of two players because of Roman Abramovich’s decision to sell the club.
Speaking on his own podcast, Romano explained that talks regarding the possible signing of Jules Kounde and Raphinha had stalled.
Could Kound be off the cards?
Kounde’s move from Sevilla to Stamford Bridge has been in the pipeline for so long.
Last summer, the defender came close to joining the Champions League holders, but an agreement over his fee could not be concluded.
However, contacts between Chelsea and Sevilla have continued, meaning a deal could still get over the line.
That was, until, Abramovich throw everything up in the air by announcing he had put the London outfit on the market.
With uncertainties surrounding the Blues and their departing owner, on-field transactions have now become even trickier.
Dear or no deal?
A new figure at the helm might want to strengthen in different areas on the pitch, potentially by spending less.
It is this vagueness over the future of Chelsea that has left their previous transfer plans in tatters.
“Thomas Tuchel last week said we are not close to signing any players, we are not yet at the final stages of any process,” shared Romano.
“So, he knows in this moment they need to take some time and then decide.
“Chelsea were working (on two deals), before the story of Roman Abramovich selling the club.
“One is Jules Kounde. I say many times, he is still top of the list for Chelsea, but now what’s next?
“Who will be the new owner? What budget will they have? Marina and Petr Cech, will they stay?
“There are many questions around Chelsea and this is why they are not able to complete agreements now.
“The players they were working for: Jules Kounde and the other one, Raphinha.”
Wrap up Raphinha
Whilst Kounde has remained a priority target for nearly a year, Raphinha’s name cropped up relatively recently.
Last month, FootballTransfers claimed Chelsea were leading the race to sign the Leeds United forward.
The Brazilian might already be eyeing up an escape from Elland Road, as Leeds struggle to survive Premier League relegation.
Becoming a Blue must be an enticing prospect, but only if the new owner’s feelings are mutual.
Please can we just finish this mess and start reshaping the squad!
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