Chelsea transfer news: Kai Havertz move all but confirmed by Bayer Leverkusen boss as Inter Milan target N’Golo Kante

All the latest news, rumours and gossip as Blues press on in summer window

Alex Pattle
Monday 31 August 2020 09:10 EDT
Comments
Havertz is a target for some of Europe's biggest clubs
Havertz is a target for some of Europe's biggest clubs (Rex)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Chelsea have had quite possibly the best – at least the most ambitious – transfer window of any Premier League club so far this summer.

In need of bolstering their defence, the Blues secured the services of left-back Ben Chilwell from Leicester, Paris Saint-Germain captain and centre-back Thiago Silva, and free agent Malang Sarr – who will spend next season on loan.

These signings came after Frank Lampard had already seen his side improve their attacking options by acquiring Germany striker Timo Werner and Ajax midfielder Hakim Ziyech.

And the London club are not necessarily done yet... Here’s a round-up of the latest Chelsea transfer news:

Leverkusen boss Bosz all but confirms Havertz exit

The final key target of Chelsea’s window is widely known to be Kai Havertz, and the midfielder’s manager at Bayer Leverkusen, Peter Bosz, had the following to say of the player’s future today.

“Unfortunately our squad has not yet been finalised [for the new season]. I no longer expect that Kevin [Volland] and Kai will train with us again.

“It is possible that other players will also leave, so we definitely have to bring some new players in.”

Havertz is reported to have agreed personal terms ahead of a £90million move to Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea and Bundesliga side Leverkusen just needing to iron out details between themselves.

Kante set for Conte reunion at Inter?

While the Blues have been strengthening up top and at the back, could their midfield be weakened before the window is up?

Former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is interested in bringing N’Golo Kante to Inter Milan, according to Football Italia.

N’Golo Kante in action for Chelsea
N’Golo Kante in action for Chelsea (EPA)

The pair worked together during the Italian coach’s time at Stamford Bridge and – as Conte looks to build upon Inter’s runners-up finishes in last season’s Serie A and Europa League – the France midfielder could greatly improve the Nerazzurri​’s chances of lifting a long-awaited trophy.

Gallagher close to Palace loan

Another potential midfield departure from Chelsea is Conor Gallagher.

The 20-year-old impressed in loan spells at Charlton and Swansea last season, but it is believed that he needs to do a little more to convince Lampard of his ability to contribute to Chelsea’s first team.

As such, he could be set for another loan move, but this time in the Premier League.

Football London are reporting that Gallagher is on the verge of joining Crystal Palace for the season, having undergone a medical on Sunday.

PSG tried to prevent Thiago Silva from joining Chelsea
PSG tried to prevent Thiago Silva from joining Chelsea (Getty Images)

Silva move almost thwarted at last moment

It turns out that Thiago Silva’s free transfer to the Bridge was almost complicated late in the day.

The centre-back’s agent revealed to L’Equipe this week that PSG’s sporting director Leonardo made a last-ditch attempt to persuade the Brazil international to stay in Paris after the Champions League final defeat by Bayern Munich.

The move came too late, however, with Silva having already agreed terms with Chelsea at that point.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in