Chelsea target Keita Balde Diao while matching Romelu Lukaku offer
Chelsea’s striker drama continues to bubble away. The Blues are reportedly targeting Keita Balde Diao even though they have made an eleventh hour bid for Romelu Lukaku.
Transfer speculation is surrounding Chelsea at the moment as they desperately look for a Diego Costa replacement. The latest reports range from the sublime to the ridiculous. The Blues have matched Manchester United’s offer for Romelu Lukaku while taking an interest in Lazio’s Keita Balde Diao.
BBC Sport report that Chelsea have fought back after United gazumped their move for Lukaku.
"Chelsea have matched Manchester United’s offer of about £75m for Everton striker Romelu Lukaku…Premier League champions Chelsea have now made a move to re-sign Lukaku, who played for the Blues before moving to Everton for £28m in July 2014."
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The Lukaku sage has stolen the headlines in the last 48 hours. He seemed set to rejoin the Blues, but Jose Mourinho came in and stole pole position, offering Everton the money they truly wanted. Chelsea aren’t going away, though, now matching the Red Devils’ offer.
This fight is set to continue in the coming days as the Belgian forward, and agent Mino Raiola, decide where his future best lies.
In the meantime, the Blues have also been linked with another forward. Keita Balde Diao, currently of Lazio, is reportedly keen on leaving the Serie A side and Chelsea are joining the hunt. With the Lukaku deal in the air, they may be lining up Keita as a backup option.
"Chelsea have also joined the race for Lazio’s want-away striker Keita Balde Diao, but the price-tag is €30m (£26.5m).Senegal international Keita’s contract is due to expire in June 2018 and he has refused to pen an extension. – via Football Italia"
The Senegalese forward netted 16 times for Lazio last season, establishing himself as an exciting young prospect. At the age of 22, his true potential is still unknown. Antonio Conte may be viewing him as one for the future, or as someone to play second fiddle to a marquee name.
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All that we can gleam for this is that Chelsea’s striker situation is complete chaos. Diego Costa is on his way out, but the Blues seem to be making little progress in signing a replacement. What do you think will happen? Vent your frustrations in the comments below!