Chelsea are keen to bring in some new faces to address their defensive woes, but manager Frank Lampard will only be allowed to do so if he offloads some of the current members of the squad.
The Blues have conceded a total of 54 goals in the Premier League this season, more than any other team in the top half, and while some of that has been down to tactical errors from Lampard, among them Many goals were conceded as a result of poor decisions. And player mistakes.
Chelsea are focusing their efforts on signing Kai Heuertz/Pool/Getty Images
As such, a new goalkeeper, centre-back and left-back are all thought to be on Lampard’s wish-list, but the boss’ top priority is to push through a deal for Bayer Leverkusen forward Kai Havertz, who It is expected to cost around £90m.
As noted by The Telegraph , Lampard has been given the green light to go ahead with the move, but that leaves him needing to clear space in his squad before making further signings.
Chelsea were forced to turn down the chance to trigger their buy-back option on Nathan Ake after Manchester City accepted a bid, as they already have four senior centre-backs, although doubts remain. There are doubts whether Lampard saw Ake as the man to fix his side. De Todas Pharmas.
West Ham United’s Declan Rice and Atletico Madrid’s Jose Gimenez are both in Lampard’s sights, but both deals are expected to be expensive and will only be approved if a place in the squad is made.
Gimenez is on Lampard’s radar / Socrates Images / Getty Images
Emerson is expected to be let go, while Jorginho will also be sold if the right offer comes along, but Lampard will have to find a buyer for either Kurt Zouma, Antonio Rudiger or Andreas Christensen if he is to sign one. And want to add a fresh face.
Pedro’s early departure would free up some extra funds, and Willian could follow his fellow winger through the exit door as he is yet to sign a contract extension at Stamford Bridge.
When asked if he knew what Willian’s next move was, Lampard replied: “It’s his decision. I haven’t got that answer. I know the situation from the end of the club.
Willian’s time at Chelsea could be over / Visionhaus/Getty Images
“I have a great relationship with Willian, but I don’t really know what the decision is. And if it happens in the next few days, like he said, it will be good for me either way.
“Of course, I’m very happy with Willian because he’s been fantastic for me this season with his input and work ethic within the squad. But it’s his choice and I respect his choice. If he He’s been a great guy for Chelsea if he decides to move on. And if he decides to move on, Chelsea will move on, and we have to look ahead.
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