Chelsea secure huge deal which could save their summer window

Chelsea secure huge deal which could save their summer window

Chelsea’s transfer window so far has been disappointing, with the Blues struggling to sign the top-class striker they need to replace the ousted Diego Costa, but a massive piece of positive news was secured last night.

The Premier League champions confirmed that manager Antonio Conte has penned an improved two-year deal at Stamford Bridge, ending speculation on his future following rumours that suggested he could jump ship and join Inter Milan.

Chelsea have managed to secure deals for Willy Caballero, Antonio Rudiger and Tiemoue Bakayoko but need further additions to strengthen the depth within their squad ahead of their Premier League title defence and their return to the Champions League.

Missing out on Romelu Lukaku was a massive blow and the reports that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will be staying in Borussia Dortmund mean Chelsea’s list of targets is forever getting shorter- and Javier Hernandez may also be off the cards, as he closes in on a move to West Ham.

Conte’s deal isn’t significant in securing his long-term future to the club, as it doesn’t extend the three-year deal he signed upon his arrival last summer, but it’s an indication that the Italian boss wants to continue to succeed at Chelsea- and it means the Blues can kick-on in the transfer market.

Real Madrid’s Alvaro Morata and Torino’s Andrea Belotti are mentioned as possible targets for Chelsea, both of whom would be expensive, but there has also been links suggesting the Blues will keep their cards close to their chest and move for Swansea City’s Fernando Llorente- a player they flirted with in January.

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia’s statement following the news shows the Italian boss retains the support of the board, which is crucial as that has been the downfall for previous boss’ at Stamford Bridge.

“Antonio achieved incredible success last season, adapting to English football very quickly and leading us to the Premier League title. This new contract reflects our belief that he can continue to deliver results both domestically and as we return to European competition in the Champions League.”

The Blues now need to focus on their activities on the transfer market and ensure their squad is ready for the return of the new season, as they’re currently lacking in key areas- which could be a huge problem as the season progresses.