Chelsea Transfer News Roundup: Tottenham want English ace; Marc Guiu outlines reason for joining Blues, and more

Chelsea are preparing to embark on a new journey under the tutelage of Enzo Maresca next season. The former Leicester City manager took charge at Stamford Bridge last month and is preparing to improve his squad.

Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur has accelerated their efforts to sign Blues midfielder Conor Gallagher. Elsewhere, Barcelona forward Marc Guiu has revealed why he opted to join the Blues this summer.

On that note, here's a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on July 2, 2024:

Tottenham want Conor Gallagher

Tottenham Hotspur have stepped up their interest in Conor Gallagher, according to journalist Alasdair Gold. The Englishman's contract at Stamford Bridge expires in a year, but he hasn't signed a new deal yet.

The 24-year-old was an indispensable part of Chelsea's starting XI last season, registering seven goals and nine assists in 50 games across competitions. However, the impending arrival of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City could signal the end of Gallagher's time at the club.

Spurs are long-term admirers of the player and are now pushing to secure his services. A sale could be tempting for the Blues, as it could be registered as pure profit in their books due to the player's homegrown status.

However, the club could also perform a U-turn and hand the 24-year-old a new deal. Gallagher could also opt to run down his contract and leave for free next summer. For now, Tottenham remain hot on his heels and want to secure his services this year.

Marc Guiu outlines reason for joining Chelsea

Marc Guiu has arrived at Stamford Bridge this summer.

Marc Guiu has revealed that he always dreamt of playing in the Premier League. The Spanish forward left Barcelona to arrive at Stamford Bridge this month.

Guiu is the latest gem to emerge out of the fabled La Masia. The 18-year-old scored two goals and set up two more from seven games for the Blaugrana in the 2023-24 campaign.

Chelsea have targeted talented youngsters in recent transfer windows, and Guiu fits their strategy like a charm. The Spaniard reportedly had a €5 million release clause in his contract with Barcelona, which the Blues have exercised.

Speaking to the club's website after completing the move, Guiu struggled to contain his excitement.

"It brings me immense joy to sign for Chelsea. I struggled to sleep last night ahead of the journey here because I was so excited.

"Ever since I was small, it was my dream to play in the Premier League and be successful in England. Now I have the opportunity to join Chelsea, and I will work my hardest to be successful for the club," said Guiu.

He continued:

"I think what's most important [to start with] is that I adapt to my surroundings, which I'm sure will be easy, and then, of course, I want to win the Champions League and the Premier League for Chelsea."

The Spaniard added that he agreed to move to Stamford Bridge, as he was convinced by the club's plans.

"My main reason for wanting to sign for Chelsea was the football and sporting project the club is offering me here and the trust everyone who works at the club is putting in me," said Guiu.

He concluded:

"The club has a very interesting plan with a lot of young and exciting players, and I think we can do great things. I think it’s a very talented squad, full of top players who are very young, have a lot of quality and have a lot to offer."

Guiu could be a long-term replacement for Romelu Lukaku, who could leave the London giants permanently this summer.

Armando Broja updates on his future

Armando Broja has refused to rule out a stay at Stamford Bridge this summer. The Albanian striker spent the second half of the 2023-24 campaign on loan at Fulham and failed to strike a chord at Craven Cottage.

Broja registered just eight appearances across competitions for the Cottagers, most of which were from the bench. The 22-year-old is no longer a guaranteed starter for the Blues, and the arrival of Marc Guiu might have all but ended his time at the club.

Recent reports have suggested that AC Milan and Everton have their eyes on Broja this summer. Milan senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic is looking for a new striker and has his eye on the 22-year-old and Romelu Lukaku,

Speaking while on international duty as cited by London World, the Albanian hinted that he's not short of options.

“I would tell him (Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Milan senior advisor) first of all that I am a big fan of his; I have always liked him as a player.

"Milan is a great club, second only to Real Madrid in history. I would tell him that I have to speak to my agent and family, then I will let him know," said Broja.

He continued:

"It’s true, I have offers from these three championships (Serie A, Bundesliga, Premier League). Staying at Chelsea? It is an option; I still have a contract with them that expires in many years.”

Broja is under contract at Stamford Bridge till 2028 but could be allowed to leave for £25 million this year.