Hazard to Stay
Chelsea’s hopes of keeping Eden Hazard at the club this summer have been boosted by the fact Zinedine Zidane resigned as manager of Real Madrid. The Frenchman was the driving force behind the move, and following his decision to leave the club, the Spanish side are set to look at different targets. Hazard’s future has been in doubt in recent months, with the Belgian confessing he’d love to play under his idol, Zidane. Although Real are yet to appoint a replacement, it is believed that the signing of Hazard will not be made a priority.
Alisson Bid Made
After reports emerged that Thibaut Courtois was likely to leave the club in the summer, Chelsea have been linked with a number of goalkeepers. Jack Butland and Jasper Cilessen are just two names rumoured with a move to Stamford Bridge. Roma goalkeeper Alisson is another goalkeeper reportedly wanted by the Blues. Reports in Italy have claimed Chelsea have made an opening bid of €60 million for the Brazilian goalkeeper, which is likely to be rejected by the Italian side. Liverpool and Real Madrid are also said to be interested in the goalkeeper, so this summer could see a bidding war commence for Alisson’s signature.
Laurent Blanc In?
As Chelsea’s search to replace Antonio Conte – who still hasn’t left as Chelsea manager – continues, more and more names have been linked to the as-yet-unvacated hot seat at Stamford Bridge. Maurizio Sarri was the favourite for weeks, before the deal seemingly went cold. Luis Enrique’s wage demands have put the Blues off. And now there is a new manager in the frame – Laurent Blanc. The Frenchman has been out of work for two years, after losing his job at PSG and being replaced by new Arsenal manager Unai Emery. It would be a cost-effective move by Chelsea, as they wouldn’t have to pay a release clause for Blanc, something that they failed to do for Sarri. Expect the managerial hunt to continue with even more twists and turns.
