Thibaut Courtois has calmed the nerves of the Chelsea fans to some extent, by saying that he will stay at the Stamford Bridge “if nothing major happens”.
The Belgian goalkeeper’s future at the club has been subject to a lot of speculation over the past, with Real Madrid being tipped as the favourites to sign Courtois, who was said to have problems with Chelsea goalkeeping coach Christophe Lollichon.
However, the 24 year old, who still has three years left on his current contract with Chelsea, has said that he will be staying at Stamford Bridge next season.
“Nothing. I am at Chelsea. We are going to have a new coach and I have three years left on my contract,” Courtois said to Spanish radio station Onda Cero. “If nothing major happens I will stay at Chelsea.”
Lukaku looking for a move away from Everton?
Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has put former club Chelsea on alert by saying that he wants to “win more titles” in order to further enhance his reputation as one of the best strikers in the world.
Chelsea, who have been lacking on the goals front this season, are said to be looking for another top class striker to provide competition to Diego Costa.
On the other hand, Romelu Lukaku has had to endure a disappointing season at Everton after his side finished 11th despite the Belgian scoring 18 goals in the Premier League.
“We have a new investor at Everton and out of courtesy I will listen to what he has to say. But in my head, I already know what I want. I want to win titles,” Lukaku was quoted as saying in Voetbalmagazine [via Goal.com]. “I have had a very good season, but it is time for me to build up my reputation. That is why I play football.”
Chelsea target Griezmann is open to other offers, says agent
It had earlier been reported that Griezmann will not be seeking a move away from the Spanish capital, as he is settled at Atletico Madrid. However, his agent revealed to the French media that the France international is open to offers from other clubs.
“Contrary to certain reports, which announced that Antoine will definitely be at Atletico next season, you should know that nothing has been decided or guaranteed,” said Griezmann’s agent Eric Olhats to L’Equipe. “We are currently listening to other clubs who are also showing a real and attractive interest.”
Chelsea have had their problems in front of goal this season, and are on the lookout for quality forwards. Girezmann is a player who can play both on the wings, and as a forward as well.
However, Atletico president Enrique Cerezo seems to have started a tug of war with Olhats, as he has publicly said that the club are not willing to sell Griezmann.
“Antoine Griezmann is an Atletico Madrid player,” said Cerezo to French radio station RMC. “He also has a long-term contract with the club. I don’t want him to leave.
Chelsea close to signing young Argentinian defender
Reports from thee English media suggest that Chelsea are on the verge of signing 20 year old River Plate centre-back Emanuel Mammana, who is set to become the first player to join the Blues this summer.
Mammana has been linked with a move to Serie A clubs Napoli and Fiorentina, but his representatives are said to have reached London to strike out deal with Chelsea, according to Transfer Market Web.
The Blues are looking for a long term replacement for 35 year old captain John Terry. While they have been linked with a move for a host of different defenders, Chelsea have only signed 20 year old American centreback Matt Miazga (in January 2016).