Welcome to the football.london transfer briefing. To help you keep on top of all things Chelsea in the market, we've got the latest noises coming from social media, journalists and so-called ITKs, rounding up what's what in the world of Chelsea.
Third Man United bid
Manchester United have reportedly submitted their third bid for Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount.
According to The Athletic, the bid is said to be worth £55million - a slight increase from the rejected £50million. United see Mount as a key target for the window and it's unlikely that he will commit his future at Stamford Bridge.
It remains to be seen whether Chelsea will accept the bid. Fabrizio Romano previously said the Blues may accept a proposal between £60million-£65million.
football.london says: We've seen this coming for some time. The failure to tie Mount down to a new deal has left the door open for Chelsea to lose the playmaker.
It's a shame because prior to the start of last season, he was a mainstay in west London. But football sometimes doesn't work the way you want it to and £60million for a player out of contract next summer is fantastic business.
READ MORE: Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Done deal, Onana twist, fresh Caicedo bid, Mount offer
United's third bid of £55million is still under their valuation, but there has to be part of Chelsea that is considering accepting it. The well-known June 30 deadline is fast approaching and earning £130million in transfer fees from Mount and Havertz would certainly help balance the books.
Azpilicueta exit
Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta is set to leave the club for free this summer. The 33-year-old only agreed a new two-year extension with the Blues last year but will not be seeing that out to its end, according to Fabrizio Romano.
It is said that the Spanish defender wishes to experience a new opportunity and will have his contract terminated in order to allow him to leave without compensation. Romano states that there is now a full agreement on personal terms with Azpilicueta and Inter after promising his commitment to the Italian side.
football.london says: Azpilicueta will leave a massive leadership hole in the Chelsea squad. He has been at the club since 2012 and played more than 500 games. In a squad set to lose three players over the age of 30 to Saudi Arabia alone, Azpilicueta's exit comes out of nowhere.
Having signed on last season it was thought he would see out his days at Stamford Bridge before a more likely move back to Spain. However, with Serie A interest in Premier League names continuing to be strong, the addition of Azpilicueta makes sense.
Outside of the intangibles he offers at Chelsea, too, there is little to gain in keeping him. Mauricio Pochettino is hoping for a fresh start and a high press: with a young side available he is giving himself the best chance to do just this.
Who should Chelsea keep or sell this summer? Have your say below!
