Chelsea ‘close in’ on World Cup star as Arsenal consider ‘shock’ move for midfielder

Arsenal and Chelsea are having very different seasons so far.

The Gunners are leading the league by eight points, albeit having played a game more, while Chelsea are in 10th place and 10 points off the top four, but they do have two games in hand. Though, the Blues have struggled for consistency this season, and winning both of those games in hand is certainly not a given.

In the meantime, Arsenal and Chelsea will both be looking to strengthen during the January transfer window. and with that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding both clubs:

Fernandez boost

Chelsea are said to be closing in on the signing of Benfica and Argentina star Enzo Fernandez, who caught the eye during the World Cup.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Enzo Fernández deal update. Chelsea and Benfica spent the whole night in negotiations — but there’s still no full agreement on key details, still waiting for Rui Costa’s green light #CFC Talks will continue on Wednesday. The player wants the move, but he’s now waiting too.”

Fernandez is set to cost around £100million despite the fact he joined Benfica for around £10million during the summer.

Rice to Arsenal?

Arsenal are said to be eyeing a summer move for West Ham and England star Declan Rice.

Rice has been heavily linked with a return to academy club Chelsea in the past, with Manchester United also heavily linked, but Fichajes claim the Gunners will make a move in the summer as they look to strengthen the defensive midfield department. West Ham have historically demanded around £100million for Rice, though their lowly efforts this season may force that figure down.

In any case, Rice would be a very expensive target for Arsenal, if indeed they are interested.