Chelsea FC Transfer Rumours: Zhang Linpeng, Paul Pogba, More!

The transfer season is in full swing, so let’s take a look at what transfer rumours concerning Chelsea FC are flying around the press this morning.

John Stones

The potential John Stones transfer now seems all but dead. The player handed in his transfer request a few days ago, only for Roberto Martinez and Bill Kenwright to reject both the request and the subsequent Blues bid. The Everton boss has also further criticised Chelsea’s actions throughout this saga, suggesting that the blunt way in which the club approached negotiations did nothing but make the move more unlikely.

"“It is no good thinking that because you have a Champions League budget you’re going to click your fingers and get anything you want because clearly we don’t work like that.” – The Guardian"

Zhang Lipeng

After this rumour seemingly came out of nowhere yesterday, the press have persevered with it through today. Now they report that Chelsea have suffered a setback in their bid to sign Zhang Linpeng, with Guangzhou Evergrande expecting a promise of regular playing time in order for the Chinese Sergio Ramos to make the move. I still don’t know who he is, but it seems that there has been some genuine contact between the various parties regarding a deal.

"The club have told the Blues a deal can only be completed if assurances are made over the defender’s playing time…”We will not continue to talk with Chelsea unless the English club make a guarantee on Zhang’s playing time.” – The Express"

Paul Pogba

The Blues are getting closer to a deal for French midfielder Paul Pogba. Reports are that Chelsea officials met with their Juventus counterparts in order to discuss the terms of an agreement during the Champions League draw on Thursday. Roman Abramovich is supposedly willing to fork out in excess of £70million for Pogba, who could be the player that validates Chelsea as a Champions League threat.

"Italian journalist Tancredi Palmeri has revealed talks took place over a potential offer for Juve’s star midfielder.He wrote on Twitter: “Chelsea and Juventus had a meeting in Monaco for Pogba. Negotiation is not closed. Juventus didn’t close the talks with Chelsea for Pogba.” – The Daily Star"

Next: Chelsea FC Must Move On From John Stones