Fabrizio Romano claims Chelsea are in talks to sign EPL winger

Brazil team-mates Raphinha of Leeds United and Thiago Silva of Chelsea (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Brazil team-mates Raphinha of Leeds United and Thiago Silva of Chelsea (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

There’s never a dull day at Chelsea! That sentiment is in full effect presently, as the Blues are undergoing almost as many instant changes as they did in what is approaching two decades. Bruce Buck, Marina Granovskaia and now Petr Cech have all departed Stamford Bridge this summer. Ultimately they were particularly important staff at CFC. I’m sure they will be missed, nevertheless, Todd Boehly probably has more than competent replacements lined up. Cech leaving will surprise some of the faithful. Though the iconic Chels’ goalkeeper believed it was the right time to go, and thusly informed Boehly of his decision. The owner wanted the retired player to stay for this transfer window, but the request was futile.

In addition, there is further promising information emerging from the Cobham training ground. A duo who suffered with injuries in 2021/22, Ben Chilwell and Callum Hudson-Odoi, are back on the grind already. It is said that the latter barely enjoyed a holiday this offseason, as he wants to regain full fitness and impress the manager. Obviously there has been recent chatter concerning Hudson-Odoi’s future at the Bridge as well. The re-emergence of Chilwell shall definitely buoy the support.

Fabrizio Romano claims Chelsea in talks over Raphinha

Super-trusrworthy Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano made a claim Sunday evening that Chelsea are in talks to sign Premier League winger Raphinha of Leeds United. This news will excite fans; the update may also confirm the imminent exit of Moroccan Hakim Ziyech.

Romano purports Arsenal have already arranged to meet Leeds on the subject this week. He also suggests that the Elland Road outfit have set a £65million fee for the wingman. I feel this supposed price tag is pretty fair in this day and age. The Northern England side have no pressure to sell, and Raphinha is a significant national team athlete who is EPL proven.

Barcelona are still trying, too, with the Brazil international’s agent and former Blue, Deco, in touch. Barca agreed personal terms with the Whites man, however, the Spaniards have not increased their bid as of yet. At the moment Raphinha is enjoying a well-earned rest abroad with his ex-professional rep following a rather testing campaign.

With regards to the remaining English interest, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have talked to representatives and remain in contact. Unfortunately the West Londoners have not eliminated this North London rival from the battle for a signature. A race that the reporter describes as “still open”; the Gunners are apparently preparing another offer.

If Chelsea truly wish to capture the Brazilian, I assume they can defeat Mikel Arteta and Antonio Conte in the pursuit. Surely the Blues still command the most power and respect in that particular ranking. Although, as speculated with respect to Gabriel Jesus, the promise of a starting XI place may be the deal breaker.

A serious push must be made if Raphinha is desired and Ziyech is unwanted. Meanwhile the option of a versatile Dembele is still viable, if the choice is one or the other. Dembele would be my preference there: his status is higher, and the Frenchman’s impact might just pip the Leeds attacker.