Movements are afoot once again in these exceedingly busy summer months. Chelsea are still in the market for a few new additions as several areas require strengthening. Signing Leicester City centreback Wesley Fofana is now said to be the priority on Fulham Road. However, only a very high bid of around £90million would realistically secure the wonderfully talented Frenchman. Meanwhile, Malang Sarr is nearing a potential exit from the Blues according to David Ornstein. Although the AS Monaco move is currently a loan, a €15m obligation to buy will be included should conditions be met. He is undergoing his medical.
Furthermore, there is talk of an improved contract for standout goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The Senegalese is a true No.1 and the club are lucky to have him. Most of you will agree that Mendy appears to be a likeable person off the field for many reasons; there are also videos often posted of his philanthropic work for delighted young fans. Sky Sports reporter Darmesh Sheth has updated CFC supporters with information on the new prospective deal: Mendy’s representatives are said to be in talks with the hierarchy, however, there is a problem. A ‘gap’ exists between the offer and the Senegal stopper’s camp’s demands. Yet it is known that he has three years remaining on his existing agreement.
Cesar Azpilicueta reveals why he chose to stay at Chelsea
For a long time it felt as though Cesar Azpilicueta would depart Stamford Bridge during this transfer window. In fact, in spite of it weakening the defence endlessly, Andreas Christensen’s and Antonio Rudiger’s transfers ironically made another elite exit increasingly likely.
Even speculation throughout the previous weeks suggested the player in question was angling for a switch to his home country for several reasons. One of those would be family, another would be, I assume, making the most of a career nearing twilight. Oh, and signing for an iconic team such as Barcelona is naturally an attractive proposition especially if you are Spanish, I suspect. And that assertion still generally stands irrespective of Barca’s lower status these days.
But the West London side wanted to retain their club captain; one who still exhibited passion and dedication on the pitch while Chelsea Football Club was in disarray. This occurred because of Romano Abramovich’s extraction from the helm and an ensuing ownership transition. Happily, the versatile defender decided to remain at the Bridge regardless of gossip and, possibly, his own original intentions.
One happy Azpi! 👊
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 8, 2022
There is a feeling among some fans and writers that CFC became upset with the Blaugrana’s negotiating tactics, along with their targeting and hijacking of almost every potential capture Thomas Tuchel eyed. Todd Boehly deserves credit for thwarting FCB, as well as backing Tuchel adequately, as the manager obviously wanted ‘Azpi’ to be a Blue in 2022/23.
With respect to the 32 year old Chels legend, maybe we should trust his explanation for not joining Barcelona. After signing a two-year extension, Azpilicueta said he was “really happy” to be a part of the new project. He also admitted that he contemplated a new challenge with Barca.
Obviously people forget that CFC were sanctioned when the player’s deal would have been assessed and he was within his right to seek an assured future. Consequent to discussions with Boehly, staff and the head coach, Azpi decided to stay “at home”, and declares he has always been committed to Chelsea. This is truly the best outcome for the team – which is most vital.