Chelsea transfer news and rumours: Barcelona pair Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez linked; Mohamed Salah wanted by QPR
A look at the latest talk surround Stamford Bridge
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It has become apparent that Lionel Messi is unsettled at Barcelona. Talk of a rift with manager Luis Enrique and an uncertain direction at the Nou Camp means the possibility of snatching the four-time Ballon d'Or winner has never been so good. According to reports, Chelsea are in the strongest position and have already agreed to meet his £200m release clause. The deal would see Messi link up once again with Cesc Fabregas, who has said he would love to see the Argentinian join him in London.
Another of Barcelona's front-three has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge. It's reports Luis Suarez could make a swift return to the Premier League after failing to settle in Catalonia. The dismissal of Andoni Zubizarreta at Barcelona and resignation of his assistant Carlos Puyol is thought to be pivotal to Suarez’s future. Chelsea will face stiff competition if the controversial Uruguayan becomes available.
STAYING PUT...
Mohamed Salah has been linked with a switch away from Stamford Bridge this month, possibly on loan. QPR manager Harry Redknapp has made clear he would be keen if the winger were available but is not expecting a deal to come through. "[Would I take him?] Of course I’d take him! But he's not available. I don’t think Chelsea would loan him, I’ve never asked for him. I’ve never thought about him until it was mentioned now. He’s a very good player but I don’t think we’ll get him on loan.” The Independent also understands that Jose Mourinho is happy to keep Salah - for now.
GOING...
Chelsea fans will be sad to see Petr Cech depart if the goalkeeper leaves the club, but they will be furious if he ends up at Arsenal. That's the suggestion today, with reports that Chelsea will allow the Czech to choose his own destination. Arsene Wenger has finally lost patience with current Gunners stopper Wojciech Szczesny and is keen on bringing in Cech.
GONE...
Nottingham Forest have used their Sky Bet Transfer Fund to sign defender Todd Kane on loan from Chelsea. The 21-year-old full-back will spend the rest of the season at the City Ground and will join up with his new team-mates on Thursday. Forest manager Stuart Pearce said: "Todd is a player we know well and we are all looking forward to working with him."
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