Rumour reel: Blues building from the back
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Chelsea sign Caballero, Rudiger could be next
Chelsea boosted their goalkeeping options at the weekend by snapping up former Manchester City stopper Willy Cabellero on a free transfer. The 35-year-old was released by The Citizens, but last season’s champions will find a use for him.
That arrival is expected to finally open the floodgates for a list of new arrivals at Stamford Bridge, as the rumour reel moves up a gear. The start of the new season is just weeks away, here’s what’s making news.
Roma defender on his way to London
24-year-old German centre back Antonio Rudiger sees his future in London, and the talented defender hinted on social media recently that he’s nearing a move to Chelsea. Rudiger, currently on the books at Serie A side Roma, is believed to be at the centre of a 28m euros bid from Antonio Conte, and that seems to have matched Roma’s valuation, while the finer details of the deal appear to have won over the player. Rudiger has been capped at every level for his country from U18 to the senior squad.
Everton to swoop on Arsenal striker
Everton bosses appear to have accepted their fate, and are looking for a capable replacement for want-away striker Romelu Lukaku, with the Belgian given the option of moving to Manchester United or returning to Chelsea. Not a bad problem to have. His current side will need a proven scorer to take his place, and see Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud as the man to fill his boots. The Toffees haven’t been shy spending cash already this summer, and are ready to write a £20m cheque to get Giroud. They’ll have competition for his signature however, as West Ham are also believed to be admirers, while Marseille have thrown their hat in the ring.
Hart to cross the Manchester divide
It looks like we may be nearing an end to the Joe Hart drama, with Manchester United wanting the England goalkeeper to cross the divide and come over to Old Trafford in time for the new season. United do, of course, have a wealth of talent between the sticks already, but there’s whispers suggesting David de Gea could be sent to Real Madrid in a player-plus-cash deal for Cristiano Ronaldo, who wants out of Spain. Shifting to United would keep Hart’s dream of playing in next year’s World Cup alive, while giving The Red Devils an experienced goalkeeper with a point to prove.
