The six-time English champions are yet to sign a new player, but not for a lack of trying.
Following Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital’s takeover from Roman Abramovich, Chelsea’s transfer embargo has been lifted.
The Blues can finally dig their heels in the transfer market after bidding farewell to six players, including defenders Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, at the end of last season.
They’re yet to make a new signing, but are actively working on a host of transfers.
Below are the eight star names that reports in the media have linked to Chelsea over the past week.
🇵🇹 Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)
As Romelu Lukaku is on his way back to Inter Milan on loan, a spot in central attack has opened up.
According to The Athletic, Chelsea’s new co-owner, Todd Boehly, met Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, last week. They allegedly discussed the idea of CR7 heading to Stamford Bridge. However, Manchester United still expect to hold into their superstar for next season.
🏴 Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)
One transfer looking more likely to go through is Raheem Sterling. Chelsea and Manchester City are in advanced talks over a deal for the winger, who is open to joining the London club.
🇫🇷 Ousmane Dembele (FC Barcelona)
Ousmane Dembele will be a free agent this week once his Barcelona contract expires. Blues boss Thomas Tuchel is reportedly interested in a reunion with his former Borussia Dortmund winger. However, Dembele could still sign a new deal at Barca.
🇧🇷 Raphinha (Leeds United)
Another wideman on Chelsea’s reported list of transfer targets is Leeds star Raphinha. The Brazilian is a man in demand this summer. Barcelona, Arsenal, and Tottenham are all interested.
🇫🇷 Jules Kounde (Sevilla)
The France international has been Chelsea’s top defensive target for over a year. However, while Jules Kounde is open to changing clubs, a deal has never materialized in this period. Sevilla would consider bids of around €65 million.
🇳🇱 Matthijs de Ligt (Juventus)
In recent weeks, Matthijs de Ligt has emerged as a top target for Chelsea. The Dutch defender has a €120 million million release clause in his Juventus contract, which lasts until 2024.
🇸🇰 Milan Skriniar (Inter Milan)
Following successful loan talks for Romelu Lukaku, Chelsea and Inter Milan are on good terms. This has led Sky Sport Italia to link Milan Skriniar with a move to London. PSG have already made a €60 million offer for the defender, but Inter turned it down.
🇳🇱 Nathan Ake (Manchester City)
The former Blues defender has struggled to make the grade at Manchester City. According to The Telegraph, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has an eye on him alongside Raheem Sterling. It’s understood Nathan Ake is open to the idea of a return to London.