Chelsea News Today: Defender’s exit, Argentine international wanted & Arne Slot
After 48 hours or so of constant Xabi Alonso news, things seem to have settled down a bit. Of course, the Spanish manager is still going to be the primary topic when it comes to the talk surrounding Chelsea. But now, some of the focus is back on the transfer market as well.
Chelsea need to strengthen their squad in the summer. But considering their financial situation, they might need to let some players leave first before moving towards fresh additions. The next manager, whether it is Alonso or somebody else, is expected have more of a say on the Blues’ transfer business as well.
Of course, there is the FA Cup final coming up as well. Pep Guardiola seems to think that ‘fatigue’ could play a factor, as his team played Crystal Palace last night and will also be travelling to London to play the final. It might just be mind games on the part of the Manchester City boss though.
Axel Disasi future update
Reports have indicated that Axel Disasi is keen to sign permanently with West Ham United. The defender has enjoyed a positive loan spell there after spending the first half of the season frozen out at Chelsea.
It could all depend on West Ham United’s status next season though. There is a genuine chance that they could get relegated. If that happens, it is hard to imagine they would be able to sign Disasi. The Frenchman might not be keen on signing with a Championship team either.
Lautaro Rivero linked with Chelsea
While one centre-back is being linked with a move away from Chelsea, there is talk of interest in another one. Reports in Italy have suggested that the Blues might have an upper hand in the race to sign Lautaro Rivero.
Rivero is a full Argentine international. The 22-year-old currently plays for River Plate. Of course, Chelsea have their eyes on rising talents in South American leagues.
They have already signed the likes of Estevao, Kendry Paez, Andrey Santos, Aaron Anselmino, amongst others. Could the River Plate centre-back be next on that list?
Arne Slot suggests at Liverpool stay
Any move for Alonso might end up depending on the future of Arne Slot at Liverpool. A large section of their fanbase has given up on the Dutch manager already.
But it looks like Liverpool are ready to stick with Slot. He has said:
“I have every reason to believe that I am the Liverpool manager next season.”
The Liverpool manager has also confirmed that he is part of the club’s transfer planning:
“Plans have been made and talks have been ongoing between the club and new players, and I am involved in that, if that is what you want to know.”
That will be music to the ears of Chelsea supporters. If Liverpool do not end up making a move for Alonso, that makes things a lot easier for the Blues.
Sourav Mahanty has covered teams like Chelsea, Celtic, Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG and more over a career that has now lasted a decade.
His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, Athlon Sports, SB Nation, FanSided, The Sportster and aggregated through Bleacher Report and NewsNow.
Outside of football, he is also interested in basketball, cricket and professional wrestling.
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