Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has already set about improving his squad ahead of the 2019/20 season.There have been plenty of cause for optimism in Lampard’s debut campaign in charge at Stamford Bridge.The Blues are through to the FA Cup final and know that a top-four finish in the Premier League is in their hands.Lampard’s mission is to close the gap to Liverpool and Manchester City and he’s not wasted any time in trying to do that, bringing in Hakim Ziyech from Ajax and Timo Werner from RB Leipzig.They could also complete a deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s highly-rated attacker Kai Havertz.Chelsea have discussed personal terms with the 21-yer-old, according to The Guardian, but are yet to reach an agreement with Leverkusen over the fee.
The Blues’ ambition has to be admired, although they might be guilty of being a bit too ambitious with their latest target.According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, they are keen on replacing goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga as a result of the 25-year-old’s difficult spell.And their target? Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen.Mundo claim that Chelsea are keeping an eye on Ter Stegen’s contract negotiations at Barcelona and are ready to include Arrizabalaga in a deal to sweeten the proposal.
Chelsea, however, understand how difficult it will be to bring Ter Stegen to Stamford Bridge.
Barcelona don’t want to sell the Germany international, widely considered to be one of the world’s best goalkeepers, and aren’t ready to listen to any offers.
Ter Stegen has been one of a few shining lights in a difficult season for Barcelona. He was voted the best player at the club by fans last week, ahead of Lionel Messi.
He’s also in agreement with Barcelona over extending his contract, so don’t expect him to leave for west London.
Ter Stegen isn’t the only La Liga goalkeeper to be linked with Chelsea.
They are reportedly keen on Atletico Madrid’s Jan Oblak, although that will also be extremely tough to pull off.