Chelsea round-up: Blues in advanced talks for Kante, Candreva interested in joining

Despite their poor season, it is an exciting time for Chelsea this summer, with new manager Antonio Conte attracting a great deal of transfer speculation.

Posted Saturday, June 04, 2016 by squawka.com

The Blues finished a disappointing 10th in the Premier League this term, after Jose Mourinho led them to nine defeats in their opening 16 games.

Although interim manager Guus Hiddink stabilised things, leading them to an unbeaten run from Mourinho’s departure in December to April, they still missed all of the targets set for themselves at the beginning of the season.

Ahead of a busy summer, the latest Chelsea news is rounded-up below.

Chelsea will consider signing Liverpool’s Christian Benteke if they cannot lure first-choice striker Romelu Lukaku back to London this summer. Lukaku is the Blues’ firm target, but after making 10 Premier League appearances in three years at Stamford Bridge and with no Champions League football available, the young Belgian might not be so keen to return. Benteke, who scored nine league goals last season, would be considerably cheaper than his compatriot. (The Times)

Incoming players may be the primary focus this summer for the Blues, but after their squad struggled last season a clear-out is also in order. One of the least surprising to be given the chop is Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato, who took more than two months to make his debut after arriving on loan from Corinthians in January. He has already been told he is to leave the club when his current deal runs out at the end of June. (UOL)

Another possible arrival from Serie A is Antonio Candreva. The Lazio winger is keen on joining Conte at Chelsea. Lazio value Candreva at £25m and it appears the Blues are stepping up their interest in making this deal happen. The 29-year-old scored 10 league goals in 30 appearances this season, while registering three assists. The Roman club finished down in eighth place and Candreva is keen to capitalise on his good form with a move to the Premier League. (Il Tempo via talkSPORT)

Chelsea star Willian is confident of Brazil’s chances at Copa America. The 2016 tournament is a special centenary celebration of the championship and takes place in the United States, with defending champions Chile looking to defend their title. But Willian, who kicks off his tournament with a game against Ecuador on Sunday, believes Brazil have a strong opportunity to win the prestigious trophy. (Chelsea’s official website)

Finally, Chelsea are in advanced talks to sign Leicester and France midfielder N’Golo Kante. However, the Foxes’ no.14 will decide his future once Euro 2016 is finished. (Tancredi Palmeri)