Paper Talk: Post-Lukaku Chelsea shortlist sees Tuchel spring deal for target back into life

Chelsea bring a midfield target back onto their radar following Romelu Lukaku’s arrival, while West Ham make an improved bid – both in all the latest Paper Talk.

CHELSEA EYEING AURELIEN TCHOUAMENI TRANSFER

Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni remains on Chelsea’s shortlist after Thomas Tuchel revised his transfer options following Romelu Lukaku’s arrival, a report claims.

The Blues have confirmed the re-signing of Belgium international striker Lukaku for a reported £97.5million. He will look to become the final piece in the Premier League title-winning puzzle, joining a wide array of talent at Stamford Bridge. However, the 28-year-old is only Chelsea’s first major summer signing.

The club are likely to sanction several sales to raise further funds. Indeed, Tammy Abraham has serious interest from Roma but could yet move to Arsenal.

As for who could come in, The Athletic has revealed Chelsea’s transfer shortlist following Lukaku’s arrival.

Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde remains on their radar, as does West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.

August 12 Transfer Chatter - Spurs want Portugal star, Arsenal plan for Abraham and Chelsea unwilling on Kounde factor

Spurs want partner for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Sporting Lisbon, Roma and Arsenal remain in battle for Tammy Abraham with Arsenal readying a plan, and Chelsea are unwilling on Kounde price, all in today's transfer chatter.

But fellow midfielder Tchouameni also features on Tuchel’s revised list. Links with the 21-year-old surfaced strongly earlier this summer, but have gone quiet, only to re-emerge after Lukaku’s signing.

The France Under-21 international moved across France from Bordeaux in January 2020 and has made 48 appearances since, chipping in with four goals and four assists.

He also plays with former Blues midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who recently gave an exciting verdict on his ability.

Fabregas said: “He has the potential to be the complete midfielder. He’s a modern midfield player.”

AND THE REST FROM PAPER TALK

West Ham have still faced rejection after making an improved, £17million bid for Rennes defender Nayef Aguerd. They previously offered £15million. (Football Insider)

Manchester City are preparing a £127million bid for Harry Kane after Tottenham rejected a £100million approach. (The Guardian)

England striker Kane hopes to have more clarity over his future following Sunday’s Premier League clash between City and Spurs. (The Telegraph)

Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham has met with officials from Roma, but does not feel entirely convinced about a transfer. As such, Arsenal remain an option. (Corriere dello Sport)

Arsenal have joined the race with Tottenham for Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic. (Corriere dello Sport)

TOTTENHAM IN VLAHOVIC BIDDING WAR

But Spurs and Atletico Madrid look the most interested clubs, with Tottenham topping the Spanish club’s €50million bid. (Sky Sport Italia)

Arsenal are also after a midfielder. But if their move for Real Madrid’s Martin Odegaard fails, they will try for Lyon’s Houssem Aour. (The Sun)

Juventus are set to complete a deal for Arsenal-linked Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli. (Goal)

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace will rival Leeds United for Huddersfield Town’s Lewis O’Brien. (Football Insider)

Leeds, though, could make a renewed effort to sign Rangers forward Ryan Kent after the Scottish club exited the Champions League. (The Athletic)

Man Utd loan transfer expected

Manchester United are likely to let exciting young forward Amad Diallo find a new loan club this summer. (Manchester Evening News)

But United midfielder James Garner has turned down a new contract, throwing his future into major doubt. (Football Insider)

Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers hopes to hand defender Jannik Vestergaard his debut in Saturday’s clash with Wolves, amid his impending move from Southampton. (Daily Mirror)

Manchester City have sold midfielder Ivan Ilic to Hellas Verona for £7million. (The Sun)

England goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is set to feature for West Brom against Luton on Saturday, despite uncertainty over his future. (Daily Mail)