Chelsea to ‘step up’ transfer pursuit of midfield target as updates on departing pair emerge

Chelsea will be looking for a much improved showing in the Premier League next term after a poor past season. The Blues finished down in a disappointing 12th position.

They have turned to Mauricio Pochettino as the man they hope can turn their fortunes around and he has the chance to bolster the squad now that the transfer window is open. Here is a look at some of the latest news and rumours relating to the club...

Lukaku latest

According to reporter Fabrizio Romano on Twitter (see tweet below), Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku has decided against a move to Saudi Arabia and wants to stay in Europe. He is due to return to Stamford Bridge following his loan spell at Inter Milan in the last campaign. The Belgium international scored 14 goals in all competitions during his stint at the San Siro.

Goalkeeper close to new club

Goalkeeper Nathan Baxter, who is leaving the Blues when his contract expires at the end of the month, is ‘close’ to joining Bolton Wanderers in League One, as per the Evening Standard. The 24-year-old has spent recent years out on loan with the likes of Ross County, Accrington Stanley and Hull City and is now ready for a new chapter in his career in the North West. The Trotters lost in the play-offs last term to Barnsley and will be eyeing promotion to the Championship again.

Target update

Chelsea will ‘step up’ their pursuit of Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo this week, as per the Daily Mail. Pochettino is hoping to see off rivals to land the Ecuador international, with N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic expected to head out the exit door soon to pave the way for new additions.

21-year-old Caicedo has been a key player for the Seagulls over recent times. However, they face a battle to keep hold of him.