Fabrizio Romano Chelsea round-up: Attacker 'open' to Blues move, forward up for sale

Chelsea may be taking some much-needed holiday time at this stage in the summer, but the work on recruitment continues behind the scenes. Enzo Maresca will be hoping to build a squad capable of fighting for the Premier League title in the coming season, and that is going to require significant spending.

The Blues have already made a start on that front, but more signings and departures are expected. Here we take a look at the latest Chelsea transfer news according to transfer ‘insider’ Fabrizio Romano.

Simons talks

The first order of business involves a potential incoming at Chelsea, who are said to be working on a deal to sign RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Xavi Simons. The Dutchman has been linked with a number of clubs in the last couple of weeks, but it seems the Blues are moving the quickest as they look to add depth behind Cole Palmer and an option out wide, with Simons able to play in both positions.

Romano has posted on X: “Understand Chelsea are advancing in talks with Xavi Simons on personal terms! Xavi, keen on the move and open to joining Chelsea… direct talks in progress to agree contract details and terms. Chelsea want to be fast ahead of club to club talks with Leipzig.”

There have been reports that Simons will cost around £60million this summer, which would make it another statement signing from Chelsea. Though, their finances have been boosted by the sale of Noni Madueke, while Christopher Nkunku is set to follow.

Nkunku sale incoming

Nkunku may have been involved in the FIFA Club World Cup campaign, but it’s no secret that Maresca has not been convinced by the Frenchman. It seems the decision was made on Nkunku some time ago, and Chelsea are open to offers.

Romano posted: “Christopher Nkunku’s exit from Chelsea this summer remains almost guaranteed. Nkunku wants to play more with several top clubs keen in the background; Chelsea are open to selling him since January. More contacts will follow soon.”

Reports have claimed Nkunku could be offloaded for as little as £35million, with the Blues likely to take a significant hit on their £60million investment. Manchester United and Bayern Munich have been linked, but it’s unclear which, if any, clubs have been serious about their interest at this stage.

Chukwuemeka stance

Last but not least, Carney Chukwuemeka also looks to be on his way out of Stamford Bridge after a pretty successful loan spell with Borussia Dortmund. Dortmund were said to be interested in another loan deal, but Chelsea are reportedly making it clear that they only want a sale this summer.

Romano has posted: “Chelsea position on Carney Chukwuemeka remains clear as revealed two days ago: only permanent sale. Borussia Dortmund have only offered a loan so far and RB Leipzig are now also keen on the deal, as @philipphinze24 @plettigoal reported. More talks to follow.” Chelsea are reportedly asking for around £40million to sell the midfielder who has struggled to make an impression in West London.

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