Chelsea Transfer News Today: Darwin Nunez talks opened as shock deal greenlit

All the latest Chelsea transfer news in one place, including updates on Darwin Nunez, Andrey Santos and Daniel Banjaqui.

Chelsea make Nunez contact

Chelsea have made “contact” with Al-Hilal striker Darwin Nunez, according to CaughtOffside.

The Uruguay international is expected to leave the Saudi giants in the summer after being de-registered from their squad for the Pro League in January following the arrival of Karim Benzema.

Chelsea have expressed a “surprise” interest in the former Liverpool star, for whom Premier League clubs are said to be queuing up after his disappointing Saudi sojourn.

Santos exit possible

Chelsea could sanction the departure of Andrey Santos if another midfielder is signed in the summer, according to Ben Jacobs.

Man Utd explored a deal for him last year during discussions over Alejandro Garnacho, and their interest in the Brazil international remains despite Chelsea’s not-for-sale stance.

This stance could, however, change if the Blues opt to add another midfielder, in which case game time may become limited for the youngster, who has become a regular under Liam Rosenior.

Chelsea keen on Banjaqui

Chelsea are among the clubs interested in Benfica wonderkid Daniel Banjaqui, according to A Bola.

The teenage right-back has emerged as a massive prospect at the Lisbon club, making three senior appearances since being handed his first-team debut by Jose Mourinho.

However, Chelsea are likely to face a tall task if they wish to sign him this summer, as Banjaqui is poised to extend his Benfica contract, which will bump his €30 million release clause up to €80m.

Pedro is world-class, but…

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has put Joao Pedro in the same category as Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland after his recent exploits, but he has nevertheless hinted that the Blues could add another striker this summer.

“Joao is in that category now. In the two months I’ve been here, he has consistently shown he is a world‑class striker,” he said. “I wouldn’t swap Joao for anyone at this moment – he is showing all the qualities and attributes I want to see.”

However, he added that he wants “competition in every area of the pitch,” which is currently not being offered by Chelsea’s other strikers, Marc Guiu and Liam Delap, who have combined for just four goals this season.

Football transfer news headlines today

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Jurgen Klopp ‘in talks’ over Madrid move: Agent responds to speculation

Rosenior puts Joao Pedro with Mbappe and Haaland – but hints Chelsea need another striker

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