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Chelsea parted ways with Mauricio Pochettino following a disappointing 2023-24 campaign, as they finished sixth in the Premier League. Former Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca, fresh from winning the Championship with the Foxes, has been appointed as the Argentinian's replacement.
Meanwhile, the Blues have entered the race to sign Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez. Elsewhere, the London giants are eyeing a move for Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka this summer.
On that note, here's a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on June 8, 2024:
Chelsea want Julian Alvarez
Chelsea have set their sights on Julian Alvarez, according to reputed journalist Gaston Edul. The Argentinean striker's future is up in the air ahead of the summer. Alvarez is a highly rated name in the European circuit but is behind Erling Haaland at the pecking order at Manchester City.
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The Argentinean's situation is unlikely to change at the Etihad any time soon, and the player is reportedly keen to leave in search of regular game time. The Blues are looking for a new No. 9 this summer, amid Nicolas Jackson's struggles.
Meanwhile, Romelu Lukaku is no longer part of plans at Stamford Bridge and is expected to leave permanently this year. Maresca is likely to pursue a new face to lead the line next summer, and Alvarez has emerged as an option.
The 24-year-old scored 19 goals and set up 13 in 54 games across competitions in the recently concluded campaign. Alvarez is under contract at the Emirates till 2028, so City are likely to demand a premium for his services.
Blues eyeing Marcin Bulka
Chelsea are eyeing a move for Marcin Bulka this summer, according to L'Equipe. The Polish custodian enjoyed a stunning season with Nice, registering 18 clean sheets in 38 outings across competitions.
His efforts have caused a stir at Stamford Bridge, with the club looking for a new goalkeeper this summer. Robert Sanchez was roped in from Brighton & Hove Albion last year but has failed to convince.
Bulka could be an upgrade on the Spaniard, but securing his signature would be no walk in the park. The 24-year-old is under contract with the Ligue 1 side till 2026, and they are under no pressure to let him go, while AC Milan also have their eyes on the Pole.
Tosin Adarabioyo outlines reason for Stamford Bridge move
Chelsea have confirmed the arrival of Tosin Adarabioyo. The English defender is set to join the club as a free agent following the expiry of his contract with Fulham this summer.
The Blues have moved quickly to strengthen their backline following the departure of Thiago Silva. Adarabioyo is a proven face in the Premier League and was being monitored by multiple club, including Manchester United.
Speaking to the London giants' website, the 26-year-old couldn't contain his excitement at completing a move to Stamford Bridge.
“Growing up, Chelsea has always been a club that have performed well and one that have had great players and teams to watch. Chelsea have won big trophies and long may it continue.
"I’m here to win. I want to win. It’s as simple as that really. I just want to keep working and pushing the team and the club in the direction we want to go in. I’m excited to get going,” said Adarabioyo.
He continued:
“Why Chelsea? I spent two or three years with Raheem Sterling and Willy Caballero, and I spent most of my youth journey with Cole Palmer.
"Before confirming the move, I gave Raz and Cole a call and they had nothing but positive things to say about the club and the project, and how excited they were that I was coming to the club."
He concluded:
“Cole is younger than me but I remember him from younger days alongside a few of the other boys that I’ve met along the way like Ben Chilwell – Chilly and I were both captains in the FA Youth Cup semi-finals. I also know Trevoh Chalobah and Armando Broja because he spent time at Fulham.”
Adarabioyo registered 25 appearances across competitions last season, missing much of the start of the campaign due to a groin surgery.
