Chelsea learn asking price for defensive target as Premier League rivals show 'interest' in outcast

Chelsea are now preparing for an FA Cup clash with Morecambe, a game that will offer Enzo Maresca the chance to rest some of his regular starters after a busy festive period. The Blues have endured a bumpy period over the last couple of weeks, dropping away from the title race, and they are now just one point ahead of Newcastle United in fifth place.

For now, though, all focus is on the FA Cup and negotiating the ongoing January transfer window. Here we round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Stamford Bridge.

Chukwuemeka latest

Aston Villa are said to be interested in re-signing Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka, who has struggled to convince since arriving at Stamford Bridge. Chukwuemeka has been made available this month, with Maresca admitting the player would like more regular first team opportunities.

According to GiveMeSport, Villa are now interested in taking the midfielder back to Villa Park, needing more depth in the middle. It has been reported that Chelsea want £40million for the outcast, but it’s likely they will have to take significantly less than that given the situation.

Guehi price

Speaking of re-signing players, Chelsea now know how much they will have to pay if they want to land former defender Marc Guehi. The Blues need more defensive depth, and Guehi is reportedly seen as the primary option,

Newcastle United were told to pay £75million for Guehi in the summer, but The Daily Mirror say Chelsea will have to pay £70million to complete a deal. The 24-year-old is only under contract for another 18 months, which may explain the slightly reduced asking price.

Lineker on Jackson potential

Gary Lineker says Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson has the potential to develop further amid a fine season for the frontman so far.

“I think with Jackson there’s a lot of good in his game,” Lineker said. “The way he spins, his movement is really good…I don’t think he’s a natural finisher, but if you work at it and train on all those things. If he can improve that facet of his game, I mean, he could be top class. He’s still obviously very young, so that improvement can come.”