A new defensive target has emerged for Chelsea in the form of Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa, the latest in a series of transfer links for the club. Our analysis of the past seven days shows the club has been tied to 29 possible arrivals and 8 potential exits. The hottest storyline right now, however, revolves around a potential move for Vinícius Júnior. Below are the latest updates on the most important transfer rumours surrounding the Blues.
Vinícius Júnior
On Wednesday, it was reported that Vinícius Júnior has been the subject of internal discussions at Chelsea, with the idea of a possible move raised at Stamford Bridge. Reporter Florian Plettenberg claims there is some truth to the links after consulting sources at both Real Madrid and Chelsea. There has been no bid, and sources at Real Madrid insist the winger is not available in January, though it is accepted it could be a different story in the summer if he does not sign a contract extension. It is too early to say if Chelsea will act on this interest. Earlier on Wednesday, Defensa Central reported The Blues are ready to offer Enzo Fernández in a swap deal. On Tuesday, claims that Chelsea made a €150 million bid were dismissed, with Brazilian journalist Leonardo Bertozzi calling the discussions speculation.
Ezri Konsa
Transfermarkt provided an update on Wednesday regarding Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa. The 28-year-old English international is an experienced centre-half who has been linked with a potential move to Chelsea. The defender has made 19 Premier League appearances for Villa this season and has 17 caps for England. His contract runs until June 2028, and he has a current market value of €35.00m. Liverpool and Manchester City are among several other clubs also linked with Konsa.
Valentino Livramento
Chelsea continue to admire their former academy player, Tino Livramento, and would be interested in re-signing the Newcastle United defender, according to a Tuesday report. A report from Football Transfers stated that Arsenal are reportedly monitoring his situation. Separately, transfer insider Fraser Fletcher revealed on December 8 that Manchester City were preparing a £65 million bid for the 23-year-old English international.
Sandro Tonali
According to The Chronicle on Monday, Newcastle United have no intention of selling Sandro Tonali despite genuine interest from Chelsea. The London side is closely monitoring the situation, with their recruitment team reportedly admiring Tonali’s leadership and ability to add strength to the side. However, Newcastle’s firm position means any approach would be rejected quickly, and the club is now preparing to open discussions over a new contract beyond his current deal, which runs until 2029.
Rafael Leão
On Wednesday, Fichajes reported that Chelsea are prepared to spend €150 million (£130 million, $175.5 million) to strengthen the squad for new manager Liam Rosenior, and AC Milan forward Rafael Leão is being considered.
Jérémy Jacquet
TEAMtalk reported on Tuesday that Arsenal, Liverpool, Man Utd, and Real Madrid have joined Chelsea in their interest in Rennes center back Jérémy Jacquet.
Yan Diomande
Yan Diomande is expected to secure a €100 million transfer this summer, and Chelsea are monitoring the 19-year-old, it was reported on Tuesday. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, a fee of €100m may be required to sign Diomande this summer. The Bundesliga side does not intend to allow the Ivory Coast international to leave during the January transfer window, and a very large offer will be required for them to consider a summer sale.
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