Chelsea players are becoming increasingly concerned the club’s transfer ban is and will continue to cost them in regards to key players.
The Blues are unable to buy or sell players or negotiate new contracts with current stars until they have a new owner, following sanctions imposed on Roman Abramovich seven weeks ago by the UK Government in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Manager Thomas Tuchel has already claimed the sanctions left the club with their ‘hands tied’ with regards to Antonio Rudiger, who is leaving the club on a free transfer and has agreed a four-year deal with Real Madrid.
But a report in The Times claims the Stamford Bridge dressing room feels sanctions could continue to harm them both in terms of incomings and outgoings until the takeover process is complete.
Sportsmail understands West Ham and England midfielder Declan Rice would like a return to Chelsea – who released the £150million Man United and Man City target as a 14-year-old – but that current instability at Stamford Bridge makes that unlikely.
Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is another reported midfield target, but Real Madrid and Liverpool are reportedly already lining up offers which would appear to put the Blues behind in the race.
The Telegraph also reported earlier this week Blues scouts have been watching Villarreal and Spain defender Pau Torres, who has a release clause of around £55m and is also of interest to the two Manchester clubs.
In terms of outgoings, Rudiger’s fellow centre-back Andreas Christensen is expected to join Barcelona while club captain Cesar Azpilicueta could also leave once he has held discussions with the new owners.
Chelsea players are becoming increasingly concerned the club’s transfer ban is costing them key players
Sanctions on Roman Abramovich (L) has already prevented them from keeping Antonio Rudiger (R)
Declan Rice (R) is a target while some members fear Thomas Tuchel (L) may also leave
Midfielders N’Golo Kante…