Thursday 24 November 2022

Adam Lallana claims Chelsea and England star Mason Mount would improve ‘every team in the world’

 

Adam Lallana has heaped praise on ‘manager’s dream’ Mason Mount, claiming the Chelsea and England star would improve ‘every team in the world’. Mount has been a key player for Chelsea and England over the past four years, helping the Blues win the Champions League and reach four Wembley finals.

He has also emerged as one of Gareth Southgate’s most trusted players, making 33 appearances for the Three Lions since 2019 and starting England’s 6-2 World Cup win over Iran on Monday. Brighton and former England midfielder Lallana believes Mount is a ‘manager’s dream’ and claims he would improve any team in the world. While Mount has been at Chelsea since the age of six, he has been linked with Premier League rivals Liverpool and Serie A giants Juventus in recent weeks.

‘Mason Mount is a manager’s dream,’ Lallana told The Times . ‘The glamorous selection by England would have been to play Phil Foden as a No 10 alongside Bukayo Saka and Sterling, but picking Mount was another of the calls Gareth Southgate got exactly right. ‘And it is no surprise to me having worked with Graham Potter at Brighton that Mount has started every Premier League and Champions League game barring one since he took over at Chelsea in September.

‘I have a soft spot for Mount because I see some similarities in how we play and what managers ask us to do. ‘He implements on the pitch what Southgate wants from his team and he will be doing that at Chelsea too. When Jurgen Klopp arrived at Liverpool in October 2015, I tried to do that, just as I am now under Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton. ‘That can earn you the tag of teacher’s pet, but it is a compliment. Sometimes I will hear comments around Mount such as, “What does he do?” Perhaps that is based on judging players solely by goals and assists.

‘Everyone is entitled to their opinion, of course, but that is complete rubbish in my book. I think he would improve any team in the world. ‘If a question mark against him is whether he can deliver big moments in big games, then I think that is unfair too. ‘Look at the Champions League final in 2021 and the threaded pass he produced to assist Kai Havertz for the match-winner in Chelsea’s success over Manchester City.

‘He also scored for England against Germany in September and, again, it is important to stress his age because, at 23, he is still evolving as a player. I didn’t even make my international debut until I was 25. ‘There is plenty of time for him to have his big moments in big games in an England shirt. Hopefully over the coming weeks. ‘His team-mates will know exactly his worth. That ability to give the ball to someone who is in a better position as quickly as possible — that is the essence of what the game is about. If only everyone did that.’

Fred delivers huge Kylian Mbappe snub as Man Utd ace reveals N'Golo Kante dream

 

It's fair to say that France have a wealth of talent at their disposal. Despite going a goal behind to Australia in their opening 2022 World Cup match in Qatar, the French showed their power to come back and win 4-1 . It was an impressive performance from Les Blues and, like England before them and then Spain after them, set down a marker, while the likes of Argentina and Germany faltered against Saudi Arabia and Japan respectively.

Kylian Mbappe starred, as usual, with a goal in the opening World Cup clash, with Olivier Giroud taking the headlines with two goals to equal Arsenal legend Thierry Henry on France's all-time top goalscorers list with 51. But while they have plenty of talented stars on show, a number of players are missing.

The midfield axis of Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kante is not present, with both out of the tournament due to injuries. The pair have shone in that France engine room over the years, but now it's Aurelien Tchouameni, alongside Adrien Rabiot instead. Despite his absence, though, Kante remains a firm favourite with opposition players. So much so that one Brazilian snubbed Mbappe in favour of the Chelsea star.

In a social media video called the JD Locker Room, with influencer PK Humble, Manchester United star Fred and Arsenal ace William Saliba were asked questions about their international teammates ahead of the World Cup. One of the questions revolved around which player from the opposing country they would like to have. Saliba chose Neymar, unsurprisingly, but Fred did not go for Mbappe. Instead, he chose Kante. Fred said:

"It's difficult. A lot of players like Pogba, and Griezmann, but it's Kante. I love it. When Kante plays, he's like a shadow. It's Kante. I can say Mbappe but..."

Kante is out of contract at Stamford Bridge this summer and looks set to leave on a free transfer unless a new contract can be agreed upon.

Wednesday 23 November 2022

Chelsea given transfer update on potential N'Golo Kante replacement amid Liverpool interest

 

Chelsea may have to turn attention away from RB Leipzig midfielder Konrad Laimer after the 25- year-old has set his heart on joining Bayern Munich in 2023. The Austrian international has long been looked at by Liverpool and other European clubs after his marauding presence in midfield was noted, but he appears keen to stay in Germany with Bild reporter Christian Falk stating that the midfielder wants to join Julien Nagelsmann's Bayern.

Laimer is out of contract in 2023 and can negotiate a free transfer away from Leipzig in January when he enters the final six months of his current deal. The Blues are looking for a midfield rebuild with Jorginho and N'Golo Kante also out of contract in the summer and Graham Potter needing more of a defensive presence in front of his backline. Chelsea have struggled to replace Kante's void when injured and face the prospect of losing another two senior players in the centre of the pitch.

Chelsea’s interest in Laimer stretches back to last season. football.london understands the Austrian international was flagged as a potential target after being watched by club scouts, who felt he possessed similar midfield qualities to Kante , which makes sense given the need for bodies in that area. Todd Boehly is also keen to bring Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice to Stamford Bridge but not only could that rely heavily on securing Champions League football for next season, given their already lofty status within the world game, a positive World Cup is only going to further increase their price.

Having spent £250million on players over the summer and also needing right-back cover, defensive reinforcements and attacking changes, Rice and Bellingham would be a big chunk of any budget being set aside, hence Laimer's appeal. When it comes to his profile, Laimer does compare well to Kante and makes a high number of tackles and blocks. Laimer is more conservative on the interception front though but remains a good ball player. These are all key areas Chelsea will need to look at for other targets over the next two windows.

Tuesday 22 November 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes ‘set to reopen Chelsea transfer talks’ after Man Utd exit with Todd Boehly keen

 

CHELSEA are reportedly set to open talks to sign Cristiano Ronaldo after he was axed by Manchester United. The Portuguese attacker saw his contract terminated by the Red Devils following his interview with Piers Morgan.

Now a free agent the 37-year-old will be on the lookout for his next club. And he may not have to wait that long as Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is keen on bringing him to Stamford Bridge according to CBS Sports Golazo. Reporter Ben Jacobs tweeted: "Todd Boehly sees the appeal of Cristiano Ronaldo." He also revealed that Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes is will "offer" him to Chelsea again.

However, a move remains "complicated" as new manager Graham Potter is "less convinced" about the idea of signing him. A move for the attacker will require the backing from Potter, who is still adjusting the side to fit his style.

 Chelsea spent big in the summer bringing in over £200million worth of talent, but they have yet to make a positive impact on the team. The Blues are currently eighth in the Premier Leagu having lost three and drawn two of their last five games.

Monday 21 November 2022

Christian Pulisic sends Graham Potter clear Chelsea message after 'immense' World Cup USA moment

 

Christian Pulisic played a massive role in the USA's opening goal against Wales at the World Cup on Monday. Timothy Weah put Gregg Berhalter's side in front after he latched onto a wonderful Pulisic pass.

Wales had been second best for much of the game, with Pulisic being allowed time and space to turn and attack the Wales back line and on another instance of that movement, he set up Weah for the opener.

Pulisic galloped past an out-of-position Joe Rodon after picking up possession just inside the Welsh before he perfectly picked out the run of Weah who showed great composure to finish beyond on Wayne Hennessey.

The finish was superb from Weah but everyone was talking about the role of Blues attacker Pulisic in the goal, here is how Twitter reacted:

@TheEuropeanLad - WEAH OPENS THE SCORE FOR USA! PULISIC WITH A GREAT ASSIST!

@Iewdawg - nah pulisic is the best player in the world did you lot see that assist

@bafem_ - I just hope Potter is watching Pulisic like this.

@jmazariegos6 - That Pulisic through ball was mint

@EricForsch - Pulisic immense there setting up the assist and Weah

@KevinTQNS - A club should take a chance on Pulisic

Todd Boehly gifted new Declan Rice World Cup transfer plan ahead of Chelsea audition

 

West Ham will reportedly be willing to listen to offers for midfielder Declan Rice next summer, according to Hammers expert ExWHUEmployee . The 23-year-old has been a known transfer target for Chelsea for several years, with David Moyes publically rejecting the interest on several occasions, even stating that Rice is valued at over £100m.

The midfielder, who Chelsea released at the age of 14, is likely to start England's opening game at the World Cup against Iran on Monday afternoon. Rice has made 34 appearances for the national team and started every game for Gareth Southgate at the European Championships in 2021.

The clock continues to tick down on Rice's current contract at The London Stadium, which expires in June 2024 and it what widely reported in June 2021 that he would not be signing a new one with the East London club. Graham Potter will be hoping for some recruitment in January after a dismal run of form in the Premier League, with Chelsea losing their last three league games before the World Cup break.

Central midfield has been an area of concern for some time at Stamford Bridge, with Rice the most notable target named tracking back to Frank Lampard's time in charge. Rice is predicted to start alongside another target in Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham and his long-time friend and Chelsea star Mason Mount in a 4-3-3 formation, with Raheem Sterling, Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka ahead of the midfield trio.

The midfield area remains uncertain for Chelsea and Todd Boehly, given the contract situation regarding N'Golo Kante and Jorginho. Both players could depart for nothing next summer, whilst the debate around handing them an extension remains complicated too.

 Kante's injury issues have been persistent since 2019, and his current hamstring issue will keep him out until February at the earliest. Jorginho has remained a more durable figure for several Chelsea coaches, but his age and form have been of concern in such a vital area. 

Ahead of January, Edson Alvarez of Ajax could spring up as an alternative to Rice, given the links that materialised very late in the summer. Moises Caicedo of Brighton is another name noted who featured in Ecuador's opening win over hosts Qatar on Sunday.

Claude Makelele reveals he helped Real Madrid beat Chelsea to £85m Aurelien Tchouameni transfer

 

Former Chelsea star Claude Makelele has revealed he helped Real Madrid to sign Aurelien Tchouameni ahead of the Blues. The midfielder joined the La Liga giants in an £85million deal from Monaco last summer, in a deal that paved the way for Casemiro to join Manchester United. The 22-year-old’s progress at Monaco over the last two seasons was rapid and he caught attention from every major club in Europe, including Chelsea.

It was felt towards the start of 2022 that Chelsea had the edge on their competitors, with the Blues putting in the groundwork to complete a deal. However, Roman Abramovich’s forced departure from Stamford Bridge complicated matters and Madrid swooped in to secure the Frenchman. And Makelele, who spent five years at Chelsea after a three-year stint at the Bernabeu, says he helped the Spaniards sign the midfielder.

‘When Tchouameni was about to sign for Real, I spoke with Florentino and he wanted to know more about him,’ Makelele told AS. ‘Chelsea were also interested but if Madrid love you, you should go because it’s the best way to be at your best.’

Chelsea must reinforce their midfield this summer, with N’Golo Kante and Jorginho out of contract. Kante has rejected a new deal, with the Frenchman holding out for a three-year contract. However, since rejecting the deal, Kante has been ruled out for four months – which somewhat vindicates Chelsea’s decision to only offer him a shorter term deal.

Saturday 19 November 2022

Chelsea handed Jude Bellingham transfer ultimatum as Real Madrid plan clear amid £130m verdict

 

Chelsea have been handed a huge boost in the race to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham. The 19-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League for some time now as he continues to impress for club and country. Bellingham has been subject to long-term interest from the Blues, football.london understand.

The west Londoners watched the England international during his time as an academy player at Birmingham City, but after failing to act on their interest, the German giants swooped in and signed the teenager instead. With Todd Boehly in the market for a new midfielder amid the uncertain futures of N'Golo Kante and Jorginho , Chelsea are one of several clubs eager to sign Bellingham, according to The Athletic . And, following Real Madrid's latest decision, the Blues could be a step closer to wrapping up a deal.

According to Spanish news outlet Sport , Los Blancos' are not prepared to meet the German side's valuation of Bellingham, which currently stands at an eye-watering £130million. This could leave the door open for Graham Potter as he looks to stamp his philosophy at Chelsea.

A number of other sides, including Premier League rivals Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United, have also shown interest in the Englishman. Signing Bellingham could be easier than first thought too, with Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke admitting that the player can leave in the summer if he wishes . As quoted by ESPN, Watzke claimed that the German side can not compete with the wages being offered by other top-flight European sides. He said:

"We will hold talks now, as soon as [the World Cup in] Qatar is over, and then we'll have a fundamental talk about what he would like. "He just needs to tell us if he'd like to stay or if he'd like to go. In both cases, we'll talk about it very pleasantly and reasonably together. "In general, we can imagine that he'd stay with us, but we can't behave as if this topic wasn't on the table. If he says, 'I'd like to do something else,' then the really big [clubs] in Europe will be there, and we can't afford to fight financially."

Mike Keegan of the Daily Mail claims that Pep Guardiola's side have a strong relationship with Dortmund, which could hand them a huge advantage in negotiations. But, with Chelsea entering the World Cup break outside of the top six, Boehly could be willing to break the bank - again - in order to fend off competitors.

Friday 18 November 2022

Christopher Nkunku injury return date revealed as Chelsea face transfer dilemma after World Cup

 


Chelsea transfer target Christopher Nkunku may face a race against time to be fit by the end of January as the France star sees his winter window move put in doubt.

 The 25-year-old has a pre-agreement to join Chelsea in 2023, but Todd Boehly is keen to try and move that forward to January in a bid to secure the deal ahead of other European powerhouses and also to strengthen the squad available to Graham Potter in the second half of the season.

Nkunku, who was part of Didier Deschamps' 26- man France squad for the World Cup in Qatar, has been withdrawn from the tournament following an injury in training less than one week before Les Bleus kick off their campaign.

 The RB Leipzig forward appeared to buckle when stretching for a ball earlier this week and immediately fell to the ground holding his knee in pain. He was then helped up by teammates and staff before hobbling away off the pitch with the support of others.

France confirmed that the injury was serious enough to mean he wouldn't be able to play in Qatar with Frankfurt attacker Randal Kolo Muani called up in his place. The initial prognosis was that it was a knee sprain, but Bild in Germany report that it is actually more serious.

 They write that Nkunku could be out for as many as 10 weeks with a torn outer ligament. Chelsea already have Reece James and Wesley Fofana out with knee injuries, but both are expected to be available for the return of domestic action for Potter's side on December 27.

If the 10 week return date is correct - it could fluctuate and more checks from Leipzig's own team will confirm - then he might yet be able to play in January, but it could put Chelsea's attempts to bring him to SW6 earlier than the summer at bay.

Thursday 17 November 2022

Todd must resist 'important' Christopher Nkunku transfer alternative after Chelsea injury

 

You could be forgiven for buying into the theory Chelsea are the victim of an injury curse this season. N'Golo Kante, Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Ben Chilwell, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Ruben Loftus- Cheek were all put on the treatment table for the World Cup break. And now even players the club have not officially signed yet are picking up injuries.

Big target Christopher Nkunku is the latest star to be ruled out of the World Cup in Qatar. The 25- year-old suffered an injury during training with the France squad before their opening game with Australia on Tuesday, with the team confirming he had sprained his knee .

Nkunku has been linked to Chelsea since serious reports emerged last month that the west London club are looking to secure his signature ahead of the January window, hoping to beat out elite European competition before his release clause becomes active next summer. Whether this injury setback for Nkunku gives Chelsea second thoughts is hard to tell, particularly given the hefty fee you could pay for him to join in 2023.

The interest in the forward is understandable and the hype is justified given 17 goals in his first 23 appearances for RB Leipzig this season. An attacking alternative for Todd Boehly in January would also come from the Bundesliga but is on loan from Chelsea in Callum Hudson-Odoi. The academy graduate is currently with Bayer Leverkusen for the season but can be recalled midway through.

Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso has heaped praise onto Hudson-Odoi who has been a consistent member of his starting lineup since he replaced Gerardo Seoane in October.

"I want to keep him a lot," Alonso said. "I'm sure that he will stay until the end of the season. He is an important player for us."

Hudson-Odoi is enjoying more minutes in Germany and starting to produce in his favoured position on the left of attack but has also been used more centrally too. The 22-year-old scored in Leverkusen's friendly win over MLS side Saint Louis 3-0 during the winter break.

"My mindset was, 'I have to get out of there'. Not in a rude way, as in 'I don’t like the club or I don’t want to be at the club, I don’t like the club'. Nothing like that," Hudson-Odoi told The Athletic in an interview recently. "But I needed to play football somewhere new. Start afresh. Try the best I can wherever I am. And then go back to Chelsea at the end of the loan.”

Hudson-Odoi needed to get out of the Chelsea bubble to gain more minutes and he is getting exactly that from the loan so far. Unlike at Chelsea, where he was shifted into unfamiliar roles and spent spells on the bench, Leverkusen has offered a fresh twist.

He is now not only starting games in a top European league, but he also started all six of Leverkusen's Champions League group matches too. Although the key numbers might not look that eye-catching on their own, those who have watched Hudson-Odoi's performances showcase a creative player who has probably been let down by the finishing of teammates and some unlucky VAR overturns.

Chelsea's woeful run of form and mood around Stamford Bridge might look towards Hudson-Odoi with the hope of an impactful comeback, but for his own development it is best he remains in Leverkusen for the entirety of this season.