As things stand, Chelsea are preparing themselves for the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, with Newcastle, Tottenham and Barcelona sniffing around.
Due to the UK Government sanctioning Roman Abramovich, the Blues are currently unable to extend the contracts of those nearing free agency.
This applies to Rudiger and Christensen, and Thomas Tuchel has now commented on talk of the latter joining Barcelona.
What’s the story?
Well, according to FC Inter News, Newcastle are hoping to sign the £83,000-a-week defender, while it was Calciomercato who claimed Spurs are keen.
However, Sport recently revealed that Christensen has agreed to join Barcelona, with Tuchel seemingly confirming that news is true.
As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, the German said: “We heard the same rumours, yes, it’s like this. It’s not confirmed yet as I didn’t speak to Andreas about it. But we heard the same rumours, yes.”
Now, as Tuchel states, the deal isn’t confirmed, but he sounds quite defeatist in regards to Christensen staying at Stamford Bridge.
That is, of course, bad news for Chelsea, but it’s also not what Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte would’ve liked to hear either.
With the deal yet to be completed, there may still time for the Premier League duo to muscle in on negotiations, but we don’t fancy their chances.
Newcastle and Tottenham loss is Barcelona gain
Newcastle and Tottenham won’t like missing out on the Denmark international, but their loss is Barcelona’s gain.
The 25-year-old is a superb footballer, who is expected to become even better as he enters his prime years.
With 156 appearances for Chelsea – 24 of those coming in the Champions League – and 55 caps for Denmark under his belt, Christensen boasts fantastic experience.
The Dane is also a Champions League winner, and, according to Transfermarkt, is valued at £31.5m.
So, for Barcelona to land him on a free transfer, due to Chelsea’s financial situation, is phenomenal business, to say the very least.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
