Chelsea doubts on Dembélé, Sterling is a target. New CB: Koundé and Nathan Aké two names

Another winger Chelsea have been linked to is Barcelona’s Ousmane Demebele, whose contract is set to expire at the end of this month, which would make him a free agent. The 25-year-old currently has no intent to accept the current proposal from the Spanish side.

But despite Chelsea’s interest in the French winger, the Blues currently have their doubts over him, with his injury record being a concern. The current feeling around the club is that Chelsea are more interested in signing Raheem Sterling than Ousmane Dembele. It’s also right to clarify that the name of Dembele is still active: it’s not a game over.

This was known all along, but why is it given weightage now? Reason, Tuchel is not taking Dembele’s procrastination on his transfer, too kindly. The iron fist approach = we aren’t desperate + other options. The players want all guarantees, but no guarantee from them on delivering

Jules Koundé is another priority target for Chelsea this summer. The Blues came close in agreeing a fee last year, till Sevilla moved the goalposts at the last minute. Kounde would be keen on a move to Chelsea, with Marina Granovskaia in regular contract with Kounde’s agents – she shares a good relationship with the Frenchman’s camp.

Tuchel is also thought to be a big fan of Manchester City defender Nathan Ake, who used to play for the west London club. It is seen as another situation to keep an eye on.