Transfers cited as Bruce Buck speaks out over £96.6m Chelsea losses

Chelsea have announced the club recorded a loss of nearly £100million for the year ending June 30, 2019.

The loss was revealed in the club’s latest financial results but, after two profitable years, the Blues insisted they are still compliant with UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations.

Turnover grew marginally to £446.7million, and the club cited a lack of Champions League football, costs associated with changing manager and a record outlay on players Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Pulisic, Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho for the £96.6m loss.

Chairman Bruce Buck said on the club’s official website: “Consistent revenue growth and careful financial management over recent seasons has allowed the club to make significant levels of investment in the playing staff whilst maintaining compliance with UEFA Financial Fair Play regulations.

“This has contributed to another Europa League victory at the end of the 2018-19 season and a return to the highest level of European competition.

“This solid commercial foundation, allied to a young and exciting team now led by Frank Lampard, means that the club is well placed to sustain its pursuit of success both on and off the pitch as well as maintain its financial stability over the coming years.”

Frank Lampard, meanwhile, has told Chelsea chiefs he wants the club to make a transfer move for a £67m-rated striker – and beat Manchester United to his signature.

The Blues are ready to delve into the transfer market this month after successfully overturning FIFA’s ban on them signing new players and speculation has begun to swirl around about whom they will target.

 

What is evident, however, is that the Blues will look to strengthen their attacking options, with Lampard admitting just last month that is an area he is ready to focus on.

“There will be discussions about where we can strengthen,” Lampard said. “The transfer window will be a bit fluid.

“It is quite clear in the summer we lost Eden Hazard who has been a huge part of scoring and creating for us in the last few seasons. We need more competition in those creative areas.”