Chelsea Transfer News Roundup: Romelu Lukaku wants Napoli move; Blues eyeing Crystal Palace ace, and more - July 17, 2024
Chelsea have been active in the transfer market, bringing in quite a few new faces. Enzo Maresca took charge at Stamford Bridge last month and is expected to further strengthen his squad over the summer.
Meanwhile, striker Romelu Lukaku is keen to move to Napoli. Elsewhere, the Blues are interested in Crystal Palace Marc Guehi.
On that note, here's a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on July 17, 2024:
Romelu Lukaku wants Napoli move
Romelu Lukaku is eager for a reunion with Antonio Conte at Napoli, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The Belgian striker spent last season on loan at AS Roma, registering 21 goals and four assists in 47 games across competitions.
However, he's apparently no longer part of Maresca's plans at Chelsea and will be allowed to leave. There's considerable interest in the 31-year-old's services, particularly from the Middle East, but Lukaku wants to move to the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.
The Belgian striker enjoyed great success with Conte during their time together at Inter Milan. Lukaku is keen to reignite that partnership at Napoli, with the club also eager to secure his services.
However, a move is likely to depend on the future of Victor Osimhen, who's expected to leave Napoli this summer. The Nigerian is a target for the Blues, but they are reluctant to trigger his €130 million release.
Instead, recent reports have suggested that the London giants are ready to include Lukaku as a part of their proposal, which could suit all parties involved. However, Paris Saint-Germain also have their eyes on Osimhen as a possible replacement for Kylian Mbappe, which could ruin Chelsea's plans.
Chelsea eyeing Marc Guehi, says journalist
Chelsea are keeping a close eye on Marc Guehi, according to journalist Dean Jones. The Blues are in the market for a new defender this summer following Thiago Silva's departure.
Maresca has secured the services of Tosin Adarabioyo on a Bosman deal. However, with Trevoh Chalobah's future uncertain, further reinforcements could be on the cards.
Guehi has emerged as an option following a stellar campaign with Crystal Palace. The Englishman was also a key member of the Three Lions team that reached the final of Euro 2024, losing 2-1 to Spain.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones added that the 24-year-old is likely to cost around £65 million.
“Arsenal, Man United and Spurs have all had an eye on Guehi since last year and his performances for England are going to cause Crystal Palace bosses a bit of a headache because his status has been on the rise this summer, and it would be no surprise to see other clubs also having a look," said Jones.
He continued:
“But, in turn, his value is going up too – so who is going to pay upwards of £60million for him in the coming weeks? They have every reason to expect £65 million for him in the current market."
He concluded:
“Chelsea and Liverpool are two clubs to pay some attention to as the player now refocuses and considers what he wants next in his career. His ambition will be heightened.”
Guehi is under contract with the Eagles till 2026.
Al-Ittihad submit offer for Kepa Arrizabalaga
Al-Ittihad have submitted an offer for Kepa Arrizabalaga, according to journalist Rudy Galetti. The Spanish goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Real Madrid, but struggled for game time.
Kepa is back with Chelsea but is unlikely to stay, with the club ready to let him go this summer. The Saudi club have now offered the 29-year-old a lifeline and have submitted a proposal for him to consider.
They have offered him a long-term contract worth €7 million per-year and are awaiting a response from the player. Al-Ittihad failed with their initial bid for the Spaniard this summer but remain in talks with the Blues to facilitate a deal.
Interestingly it has been reported that Los Blancos also have their eyes on Kepa as a possible replacement for Andriy Lunin, whose future remains uncertain. If Ukrainian leaves, the La Liga champions will move for the 29-year-old. Kepa apparently has his heart set on a Santiago Bernabeu return.