Chelsea have been on the hunt for a new forward in this summer's transfer window. There have been links between the Blues and Raheem Sterling, Robert Lewandowski, Ousmane Dembele, and Raphinha. As one of the only Premier League teams yet to make a signing this summer, it comes as a relief that the Blues are extremely close to signing Sterling. Fees are said to have been agreed on both personal and club terms, and a medical is set to be completed soon as Sterling returns to England from his vacation in Jamaica.
It's all heating up now, but despite making a bid that Leeds United are satisfied with, there is a hold-up in signing Raphinha as Barcelona continues to dabble into Chelsea's business. The Catalans have shared similar interests with Chelsea all summer long having lured Andreas Christensen to the Nou Camp and could also be taking Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso off their hands. In addition to this, Jules Kounde is also said to be awaiting the call from Barcelona despite being a long-term target for Tuchel's side.
A reunion was once on the cards for Dembele and Tuchel but it seems as though Barcelona are eager to keep the Frenchman. Xavi's side has offered a new deal that will sanction a 40% pay cut for the 25-year-old and Dembele is reportedly on board. Absolutely bizarre considering that the Blues were apparently involved in negotiations with the France international. Barcelona now have the option for Raphinha or Dembele, but what will that leave Chelsea with?
