As Chelsea wraps up their decision not to include Trevoh Chalobah in their American tour this summer, there's still significant activity happening behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are navigating a crucial period as the transfer window nears its final stretch, with decisions to be made both in terms of player acquisitions and departures.
Chelsea’s Transfer Focus and Summer Strategy
With just six weeks remaining in the transfer window, Chelsea's fourth under the current management, the club is at a pivotal juncture. Enzo Maresca faces the task of trimming a large squad during the U.S. tour, while the sporting directors and decision-makers at the club are gearing up for crucial negotiations.
The primary objective for Chelsea this season is to secure a place in the Champions League. However, the squad has yet to be significantly upgraded. Maresca hopes that players returning from injuries under Mauricio Pochettino can provide the boost the team needs, effectively acting as new signings.
Conor Gallagher Transfer Update
Recent reports from Spain suggest that Atletico Madrid is preparing a second bid for Conor Gallagher, following an initial offer of around £17 million which Chelsea swiftly rejected. Diego Simeone’s side is reportedly ready to double their offer to £34 million in a bid to persuade Chelsea to part with the England international.
Despite this increased offer, Chelsea’s valuation of Gallagher remains higher, with the club expecting closer to £50 million for the midfielder. Gallagher's rising stature within the squad, highlighted by his role as captain and his involvement in the European Championship, has significantly boosted his market value.
Gallagher is currently on a break but is expected to join his teammates in the U.S. soon. His preference reportedly remains to stay at Chelsea, though Atletico's offer and the prospect of working with Simeone could be enticing. Chelsea’s decision on Gallagher will ultimately depend on the player’s stance and the final terms offered.
Chelsea’s Pursuit of Desire Doue
In other transfer news, Chelsea appears to be falling behind in the race to sign Rennes’ attacking prodigy, Desire Doue. PSG and Bayern Munich have emerged as the primary contenders for the young Frenchman’s signature. PSG, with a personal intervention from their president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, is reportedly readying a new bid after Bayern’s £55 million offer.
Both PSG and Bayern are leaving the decision up to Doue, with each club prepared to let the offers stand without escalating their bids further. Chelsea and Arsenal were previously mentioned as potential suitors, but the competition from these two European giants puts the Blues at a disadvantage.
Stay Updated
For the latest updates on Chelsea’s transfer activities and more, stay tuned to football.london.
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Keywords: Chelsea transfer news, Conor Gallagher transfer, Atletico Madrid bid, Desire Doue transfer, Chelsea squad updates, football.london