Three Premier League clubs to battle for Chelsea star amid interest from Italy - Reports
Chelsea star Ben Chilwell could reportedly have three Premier League clubs vying for his signature in the January transfer window. He has also garnered interest from Italian side Napoli.
Chilwell has become surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge following Enzo Maresca's appointment as manager in the summer. He was close to leaving the club but a move didn't materialize. However, he's played just one half of football this season so far - EFL Cup third-round clash against Barrow.
As per The Sun, seeing no future at Chelsea, Chilwell is open to leaving the club even in the January transfer window. Fulham, Crystal Palace, and Ipswich Town are all interested in signing him. Fulham have had a decent start to the season and sit eighth in the table while Palace are 18th. Newly promoted side Ipswich Town are just a point above the Eagles in 17th.
Chilwell also have interest from Napoli, with manager Antonio Conte a fan of the Englishman. The Gli Azzurri sit at the top of the Serie A table after seven games. They could look to sign the left-back on a six-month loan with a buy option or obligation to buy in the summer.
Chilwell's contract with Chelsea expires in 2027 and as per Transfermarkt, his market value is €22 million. However, with the Blues looking to offload the left-back, they might even accept a lower fee.
Ex-Napoli striker claims former Chelsea man Romelu Lukaku is the best striker in Serie A
Former Serie A striker Emanuele Calaio believes Romelu Lukaku is the best striker in the league despite playing at just 50% of his ability so far. He heaped praise on the Belgian's ability and also his leadership.
Napoli signed Lukaku from Chelsea for a reported fee of €30 million in the summer. He has since scored three goals and provided five assists in six games across competitions. In a recent interview, Calaio said about Lukaku (via Football Italia):
"And he’s still playing at 50% of his condition. So far he’s relied on his experience, jostling with opposition defenders and getting on the ball to facilitate the wingers and midfielders. We haven’t seen the real Lukaku yet.
“When he’s in his best condition, we will go back to admiring the Belgian for his plays in front of goal, like his Inter days. He is still the best striker in Serie A. Whether he’s playing well or badly, Lukaku always manages to score 20 goals a season. And he’s a big leader for his teammates.”
Napoli also signed former Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour from Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer.