Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Chelsea transfer news and rumours: Tiemoue Bakayoko, Michy Batshuayi and Davide Zappacosta latest

Frank Lampard is shaping his squad ahead of the later deadlines around Europe

Jack Rathborn
Tuesday 20 August 2019 15:53 BST
Comments
Frank Lampard says Chelsea return was 'a very special moment'

While the English transfer window is now shut with Chelsea serving half of their transfer ban, there is still time for Frank Lampard to streamline his squad.

The Blues are yet to win in three attempts under Lampard, but with the pathway now clearer for young players, several senior players will be pushed towards the exit ahead of the various deadlines across Europe.

Serie A is close to shutting its window on August 23 before their season starts, while La Liga, the Bundesliga and Ligue 1 shut later on September 2.

First to leave before then should be Davide Zappacosta, who is heading to Roma on loan, according to multiple reports.

This could be a significant news for Reece James and his hopes of breaking into the first team, with Cesar Azpilicueta struggling for form.

The Telegraph claim the Blues rejected an approach from West Ham for their young right-back, with Crystal Palace and Brighton also making an enquiry.

Moreover Lampard could call on Callum Hudson-Odoi soon, with the winger returning to training after injuring his Achilles.

More streamlining could see Paris Saint-Germain take Tiemoue Bakayoko on loan, with the French midfielder not wanted by Lampard.

Zappacosta is set to leave on loan (Getty) (Getty Images)

Former club Monaco are also keen, but the lure of the French champions could win out for the former AC Milan loanee, according to the Express.

Michy Batshuayi’s future remains unclear, despite a brace midweek for the Blues’ Under-23 side against Liverpool, with the Standard reporting he wants to stay and fight for his place.

Roma are keen to take him, alongside Zappacosta, but the Blues have demanded £23m for the Belgian striker, according to Goal.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in