Player ratings 2012/13

 

This season was definitely one of the most turbulent ever seen at SW6.

Sixty-nine games, eight competitions, two managers, superstar signings, memorable wins, shock defeats, highly significant poor refereeing decisions, a season-long contract drama with a club legend, and scandal. This season had it all.

There was never a dull moment for a Chelsea fan. Despite all the drama, the club managed to qualify, albeit not comfortably, for the Champions League and notched up a second successive European trophy with their success in the Europa League.

Amongst the players, there were plenty of heroes, but also plenty of players who didn't quite perform up to their full potential.

Here we take a look at the entire squad's performance over the course of the campaign:

1. Petr Cech: 8.5

The Czech stopper was at his reliable best throughout the season and rarely put a foot wrong. The 31-year-old managed to rack up 20 clean sheets in 63 games and made some brilliant saves in the campaign, the most memorable being from Javier Hernandez's point-blank header in the FA Cup.

2. Branislav Ivanovic: 8

Ivanovic had an excellent season for Chelsea. The centre-back was solid at the back and also a big goal-threat, amassing eight goals in all competitions, including the last-minute winner in the Europa League final. The odd mistake aside, the big Serb was a rock at the back for the Blues.

3. Ashley Cole: 7.5

Though still one of the best left-backs in the world, Cole didn't have an outstanding season by his standards. Despite his five assists this year, he wasn't as much of a threat going forward as he has been in earlier seasons. Defensively, though, Cole was still one of the most reliable players in the league, especially in one-on-one situations

4. David Luiz: 8.5

They may not like him, but the Chelsea fans must be grateful to Rafael Benitez for finally taming David Luiz. Shifting into a holding-midfield position in the second half of the season brought out the best in Luiz, especially when he was paired with Frank Lampard. He was able to utilise both his attacking and defensive abilities to the full and he showed his eye for the spectacular with some mind-blowing goals against Fulham and Basel.

6. Oriol Romeu: 5.5

Romeu missed almost the entire season through injury but when he did play, his performances were unspectacular. He is yet to show why Barcelona valued him so highly but he still has age on his side and should blossom into a decent holding midfielder once he gets more acquainted with the English game

7. Ramires: 8

The tough-tackling Brazilian had yet another impressive season in the Chelsea midfield. His boundless energy and lung-busting runs were vital to the Blues in their marathon campaign. He popped up with important goals again this year including three against Manchester United.

8. Frank Lampard: 9

The Chelsea vice-captain continued to roll back the years as he spent the entire season in pursuit of Bobby Tambling's record. In a season that looked like it would be his last at Chelsea, Lampard put injuries behind him to manage an astounding 17 goals from just 38 starts from a holding midfield role. For the second season running, he captained the Blues to a European trophy. He became Chelsea's all-time highest scorer in a match-winning performance against Aston Villa and truly deserved his contract extension.

9. Fernando Torres: 7

This season Torres finally started to show a few glimpses of his former self, but his strike-rate still doesn't justify his price tag. He was Chelsea's leading scorer this season but most of his goals came against lowly opposition. That being said, without him, Chelsea would have been nowhere in the Europa League. Torres' main problem is that he tends to disappear in games and unlike Demba Ba, he doesn't bully defenders. If he improves his work-rate, El Nino could still be fondly remembered by Chelsea fans.

10. Juan Mata: 10

There are few words that can truly describe Juan Mata. The little Spaniard has been at the heart of all things good for Chelsea, carrying on where he left off last season, and in some style too. 20 goals and 35 assists in all competitions pretty much sum up how important he has been to the club this season. His touch, vision, dribbling pin-point passing and eye for goal make him a fearsome opponent for any team. Few could stop him this season and he fully deserved his second consecutive Chelsea Player of the Year award as well as his nominations for the PFA and FWA awards.

11. Oscar: 7.5

The young Brazilian started life at Stamford Bridge in brilliant fashion. He announced himself on the European stage with a superb performance against Italian Champions Juventus, leaving Andrea Pirlo looking like a toddler who was playing football for the first time. Unfortunately, Oscar never quite transferred his European form to the Premier League. Still, he had a good debut season with double figures in goals and assists. He will only get better in the years to come.

12. John Obi Mikel: 6

John Obi Mikel made it another year without scoring a goal this season, and with no assists either, he is the new Stewart Downing. Apart from an impressive performance against Manchester United, Mikel didn't do much this season. He slows down the game and almost all his passes are sideways or backwards. Chelsea need holding midfielders who can feed the attackers and Mikel just doesn't fit the bill.

13. Victor Moses: 5.5

The statistics lie with regard to Moses. He may have scored 10 goals in 43 games this season but his overall play has been very poor. Often guilty of conceding possession cheaply, the Nigerian winger was regularly a source of frustration for the fans and was never quite convincing after the departure of Roberto di Matteo

16. Raul Meireles: 5

Many Chelsea fans will be forgiven for forgetting that Meireles played this season. The Portuguese midfielder only made three appearances before his switch to Fenerbahce, with nothing noteworthy in his performances.

17. Eden Hazard: 9.5

The young Belgian winger came with a massive reputation and an  equally massive transfer fee. Hazard terrorised defences from the word go this season, notching up 13 goals and 24 assists in all competitions. Many of his goals were utterly spectacular, including a 35-yard thunderbolt against Stoke and a sumptuous curler against Manchester United. His understanding with Juan Mata seemed telepathic at times and there is no doubt that their partnership will be vital for the Blues in the years to come.

19. Paulo Ferreira: 5.5

Another player who was nearly invisible this season. Ferreira featured in less than ten games and gave average performances.

21. Marko Marin: 4.5

The German winger had a season to forget. Injuries plagued his first year in English football and he hardly had an impact when called upon. Managed just one goal, which came in a 4-1 rout of Wigan.

22. Ross Turnbull: 5

Turnbull showed again this season that he is not a goalkeeper of Premier League quality. A truly awful performance in the draw with Brentford will not be easily forgotten by Chelsea fans.

23. Daniel Sturridge: 6

Sturridge barely got a chance this season, mainly due to injuries. He wasn't anywhere near as impressive as last season though and scored just twice before a move to Merseyside that has seen him fluorish.

24. Gary Cahill: 8

Cahill firmly established himself as a first-choice centre-back this season and has turned in consistently good performances. The first half of the season brought a barrage of goals for the England international, who finished with six for the season. He showed that he can be a good successor to John Terry with his ability to marshal the back-line. 

26. John Terry: 6

The Chelsea captain's powers are on the wane and he struggled more than ever to remain injury free this season. He is no longer a first-choice, even when fit, largely due to a complete lack of pace. While he has become something of a liability at the back, he is still a brilliant leader as well as one of the biggest aerial threats in the league. Six goals in 27 games is no mean feat for a centre-back.

28. Cesar Azpilicueta: 7.5

The young Spanish right-back had an impressive debut season in England, establishing himself in the Chelsea starting line-up. Although he did have a few moments this year where his inexperience was exposed, the majority of his performances were good. He was always willing to go forward and is a good crosser of the ball. He managed to notch up six assists in the Premier League.

29. Demba Ba: 7

The Senegalese striker was bought to remove the burden of scoring from Fernando Torres' shoulders, but didn't quite deliver as many goals as expected. However, his work rate cannot be called into question. He was always willing to impose himself upon defenders, something that was sorely missing in Torres' game. The alternate game rotation probably didn't suit him either. He did, however, give Chelsea fans some goals to remember with stunning acrobatic efforts against both Manchester clubs in the FA Cup

30. Yossi Benayoun: 4.5

Benayoun never had a chance of getting regular first team action this season with the likes of Mata, Hazard and Oscar in the attacking midfield positions. Chelsea fans are proably glad he didn't because he was ineffective whenever he did play.

34. Ryan Bertrand: 6

Bertrand was never quite convincing as an adequate deputy for Ashley Cole, and he didn't do much to change that this season. He was prone to giving the ball away a tad too often and also wasn't always reliable defensively.

35. Lucas Piazon: 6.5

The highly-rated Brazilian teenager got a few chances in the senior team before being sent on loan to Malaga and he put in some decent performances, notching up assists against Aston Villa and Wolves

57. Nathan Ake: 7

The young Dutch defender got his chance with the senior team this season and justified it with his performances both at the back and in midfield. Composed on the ball and mature beyond his years, Ake showed why he is so highly rated, and should be an important player for Chelsea in the future

Chelsea Now Ready To Do Deal For Hulk?

Even though media reports are flooding in about the impending arrival of Jose Mourinho, reports from Russia suggest offers have been made for Zenit St. Petersburg striker Hulk by two Premier League clubs, one of whom is reportedly Chelsea.

Mourinho’s arrival is set to be confirmed by the club this week but transfers are happening even without the new boss in place officially. Metro is reporting that though Chelsea’s interest in Hulk is well known his agent, Teodoro Fonseca is currently suggesting that he has conducted serious discussions with a couple of English teams.

‘There are two great teams of the Premier League to have made their interest known,’ said Fonseca.

Seemingly Hulk will cost a pretty penny with Zenit only willing to consider bids north of £40million which does seem a little steep for a guy who has only scored 7 goals in 18 matches so far.

As the Blues are ready to confirm the highly awaited signing of Andre Schurrle from Bayer Leverkusen, Abramovich is keen on building a side which will challenge for the world’s top honors, including the UEFA Champions League. The Blues were knocked out in this year’s competition early in the group stages, but went on to win the UEFA Europa League, thanks to the efforts of interim boss Rafael Benitez.

Despite signing Eden Hazard, who was wanted by both Manchester clubs and Chelsea, the club’s transformation is still in motion, with young stars being tipped to arrive at the club. With fan favorite Mourinho arriving this year, Abramovich wants to leave no stone unturned. A similar buying spree was seen at Mourinho’s first spell at the club, when the club spent handsomely on stars from around Europe.

Hulk has had a controversial year at Zenit, with reports of players being unhappy about his high wages and he himself feeling out of sorts with life in Russia. The striker also had a reported rift with the club’s coach Luciano Spalletti, and is keen on leaving the club in this window. Manchester City, Real Madrid and a reunion with AVB at Tottenham have all also been mentioned as possible destinations for the Brazilian forward. Hulk would certainly be a big name signing but is he what Chelsea really need?

Ashley Cole Captains England Vs Ireland

 

Ashley Cole will captain England against the Republic of Ireland in celebration of his 100th cap.
With regular skipper Steven Gerrard missing, Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard was expected to walk the players out at Wembley.

In a confusing original announcement, Roy Hodgson seemed to suggest that Cole would lead the team out on his 102nd appearance before Lampard would take over the leader’s duties.

However, after further questioning, the former Fulham boss stated that Cole would captain the team throughout.

Initially, Hodgson said: “Frank’s always been the captain in Steve’s absence. I appointed him when I started over a year ago.

“But in actual fact tomorrow, Frank and I have discussed this and Frank’s happy for Ashley to lead the team onto the field in celebration of his 100th cap, which he’ll receive tomorrow.

“It’s actually his 102nd appearance. Frank and I are happy that he will lead the team out there but Frank still remains the captain of the team.”

But he later explained: “No. He is captain as well.

"The fact is that he, as you well know, does not enjoy the responsibility of talking publicly and that is why maybe in the past when the England captaincy has come up in the past I am sure his name will have been considered.

“But he shied away from that and he will have been happy to play under others.

“But on this occasion we all think this is the right thing to do, and he is happy to accept that.

“He was also maybe satisfied with our compromise, that with the press conference today, Frank Lampard would be the one coming in and speaking for the team here, whereas he will be doing his talking with his feet tomorrow evening on the pitch.”

After the farce had been cleared up, Lampard offered his take on why his long-time Chelsea colleague had been honoured with the armband.

He said: “Not only getting 100 caps, but the way he has performed over those 100 caps as the most consistent left-back probably in world football over such a long period of time, it’s the perfect gesture and very much deserved.”

First International Champions Cup fixture confirmed

Chelsea's participation in the Guinness International Champions Cup in America will begin when we meet Inter at Indianapolis's Lucas Oil Stadium on August 1.
We announced our involvement in the summer tournament last weekend, and after the draw we now know we will visit Indianapolis for the first time, in an 8pm kick-off against our Italian opposition.

The eight teams are split into two groups, with AC Milan and Valencia the other teams on our East side of the draw, and Real Madrid, Juventus, LA Galaxy and Everton making up the West side.

On August 4, we will travel to the MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants, and the complex we used for training on the New York leg of our summer tour in 2012, to meet either AC Milan or Valencia.

All eight teams then descend on Miami, Florida, and the Sun Life Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins, for a two-day final festival. From August 6-7, four matches will be played where each first, second, third and fourth-placed team meet their corresponding opponents from the opposite group, with the finalists meeting at 9pm on Wednesday, August 7.

The full schedule for the Guinness International Champions Cup can be seen below :

July 27 - Valencia v AC Milan - Mestalla Stadium, Valencia

July 31 - Everton v Juventus - AT&T Park, San Francisco

August 1 - Chelsea v Inter - Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis

August 1 - Real Madrid v LA Galaxy, University of Phoenix Stadium, Phoenix

August 3 - West side semis - Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles

August 4 - East side semis - MetLife Stadium, New Jersey

August 6 - 7th placeand 5th place matches - Sun Life Stadium, Miami

August 7 - 3rd place and 1st place matches - Sun Life Stadium, Miami

Mourinho targets six players ahead of Chelsea return

 

Jose Mourinho has drawn up a shortlist of six signings for Chelsea this summer, the Daily Mirror has reported, with three defenders, two midfielders and a striker wanted by the soon-to-be-former Real Madrid Coach.

Mourinho leaves Madrid on June 2 and is expected to be named as Chelsea’s next permanent manager shortly after, with Rafael Benitez still in interim control at Stamford Bridge. But Mourinho has already started laying the groundwork for his second spell at the helm of the Europa League winners, naming the half-a-dozen positions he wishes to improve and suggesting the players for the club to sign.

They include Atletico Madrid forward Radamel Falcao, Malaga midfielder Isco, Everton’s Marouane Fellaini and Porto’s highly-rated young defender Eliquim Mangala. Chelsea are also close to wrapping up the purchase of Bayer Leverkusen attacker Andre Schurrle, while Mourinho is said to have advised bringing back goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois from his long-term loan with Atletico.

Mourinho, who first managed Chelsea between 2004 and 2007, winning the Premier League title twice, has to wait until the end of the Spanish league campaign before he can return to west London. The Mirror claims he has a contract with owner Roman Abramovich already agreed, and that Chelsea are willing to sell Fernando Torres to help fund Mourinho’s desired transfer moves.

Mourinho Agrees 4-year £250,000-a-week Chelsea deal

 

Jose Mourinho will move to Chelsea on a four-year contract.

Mourinho's split from Real Madrid was confirmed this week.

The Daily Star says he will fly to London on June 2 – and sign a four-year contract at Chelsea worth £250,000 a week.

Mourinho will jet in the day after his final game in charge of Real Madrid to seal his mega deal.

That is a commitment of around £50m from owner Roman Abramovich for the second coming of The Special One.

Mourinho wants to take Malaga player to Chelsea

Spanish newspaper AS claims today that a three way battle is emerging for Malaga’s young playmaker Isco Alarcon with Chelsea now joining the race along with Real Madrid and Manchester City.

The 21-year-old midfielder can leave Malaga for €35 million, his release clause, according to AS today.

Isco is believed to be Real Madrid’s primary target this summer after a fine campaign for Malaga but Jose Mourinho has already told Chelsea to make a bid for the player.

Manuel Pellegrini has also worked with Isco at Malaga and it is thought that he will be advising Manchester City to bid big for Isco.

AS also added that Jose Mourinho has told his Chelsea bosses that he wants to bring Fabio Coentrao from Real Madrid with the Portuguese left-sided player seen as a back up to Ashley Cole.

Chelsea in pole position to land £80m Ronaldo

Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has raised the prospect of Cristiano Ronaldo following Jose Mourinho to Chelsea... after dismissing Manchester United's chances of re-signing the Portuguese star.
Ronaldo, aged 27, is at the centre of a £80m bidding war after growing disillusioned with life in the Spanish capital.

When asked whether the Portugal flyer was happy at Real Madrid, Calderon told talkSPORT: 'Ronaldo said he was sad at the beginning of the season. I think the relationship with the current president is not a good one, maybe because the president doesn’t like the players he inherited.

There are not many teams that could afford to pay him what he deserves and who can pay Real Madrid what they are asking for. There are three clubs - Manchester City, PSG and Chelsea. I don’t think any other club is going to pay that amount of money for a player.

'They [Real] are going to negotiate the contract now and they will make a decision. It’s something we will know in a few weeks

United have first option to sign Ronaldo if Real decide to sell and the Portugal star favours a return to Old Trafford.

But Mourinho, with whom he has worked at the Bernabeu for the past three years, has added him to his list of premium targets.

Wayne Rooney, who would prefer to move to Chelsea, and Napoli striker Edinson Cavani are also wanted by Mourinho.

Ronaldo has spent four seasons at Real Madrid but has become frustrated by the lack of harmony at the club.

Although Mourinho is unlikely to be able to persuade all three forwards to move to Chelsea, the club intend to move swiftly this summer.

Mourinho’s relationship with Ronaldo was under scrutiny last weekend when the forward appeared to shout ‘**** you’ at his coach after scoring his 200th goal for Real.

Ronaldo spoke in Portuguese when he pointed to the Real club badge and shouted ‘I’m here, I’m here’ in front of Mourinho as the coach prepares to quit Spain after three years in charge of the world’s biggest football club.

Chelsea are favourites to win Premier League in 2013/14

Football fans have voted for Chelsea as favourites to win the Premier League next season, in an online poll conducted by Goal.com.

The Europa League winners, who finished third behind both Manchester clubs this campaign, are aiming to recapture the league success of Jose Mourinho's spell at Stamford Bridge, as he looks set for a return to the Blues.

Chelsea received approximately one-third of all votes cast, marginally ahead of reigning champions Manchester United, with Mourinho regarded as the league's best manager following Sir Alex Ferguson's Old Trafford farewell.

Spaniards Juan Mata and Fernando Torres are among those to have won both major European trophies at Chelsea without Premier League glory, while the Blues squad will be bolstered by a £100 million summer transfer spree.

Elsewhere, Arsenal are considered more likely to triumph than Manchester City - in what would be their first domestic title since 2004 - after manager Arsene Wenger promised to make significant signings to improve the current squad.

However, it could be down to the club's stability that the Gunners are so highly rated, since all three rivals have undergone managerial mayhem once again.

Chelsea 's New Training Kit

Mata and Hazard with their FIFA TOTS cards !

Romelu Lukaku: I’m Dreaming Of Playing For Jose Mourinho At Chelsea

On-loan Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku admits he had been dreaming of a chance to play under ex-Blues boss Jose Mourinho for years.
The Portugese’s reign at Real Madrid ended on mutual terms on Monday, but not without a parting shot from Barcelona vice-president Carles Villarubi who labelled his tenure a "scourge".

Mourinho, who managed Chelsea to arguably their most successful period in the Premier League from 2004 to 2007, has long been backed for a return to Stamford Bridge.

Lukaku’s dream could yet be realised, with his loan spell at West Brom ending following 17 goals in 35 appearances, and a return to Chelsea on the cards.
The striker told RTBF’s Tribune show: "When Mourinho led Chelsea, I thought all the time that it would be a dream to be coached by him.

"I should talk to him now and know what his thoughts are about me."

His personal desires aside, Lukaku’s immediate future could yet be questioned, especially under new Chelsea management.

Just eight appearances in his debut season for Chelsea in 2011/12, means a transfer may not prove a raw deal, especially with Belgium’s World Cup qualifiers looming.

However, the 20-year-old insisted he was putting his overall development at the fore, adding: "I have to be smart in my choice. The bottom line is that I’m progressing and I confirmed my progress this year.

"Of course the World Cup will play an important role. After the pre-season with Chelsea, we have the World Cup qualifiers and I have to be ready for them."

The qualifiers themselves have not proven a happy hunting ground for Lukaku, having primarily been an unused substitute as Belgium rose to the top of their group.

But he remains positive about a future role with his national side, for who he has made 19 appearances scoring three goals.

He said: "The team wins and that’s the point. I should think about the team.

"It’s for me to show the coach that I deserve better. I should control my emotions and wait to speak with him, as it is all very direct."

Schurrle confident of Chelsea move

Chelsea target Andre Schurrle is convinced that he'll be wearing the Stamford Bridge club's blue strip next season. Although the deal seemed on the verge of completion a few weeks ago, of late both Chelsea and Leverkusen have been reticent about its completion. Apparently however, the player harbours no similar doubts, and Sky are reporting that he feels that he has completed his last game for the German club.

The 22 year old player has been very much on Chelsea's radar for a couple of seasons and with the apparently imminent arrival of Jose Mourinho, the Chelsea summer plans appear to be taking shape. With Schurrle able to play either in a wide position or as a striker, the acquisition will give much needed flexibility to Chelsea's attacking options. With the striker options currently hamstrung between the terminally out of touch Torres and the workmanlike, but largely uninspiring Demba Ba, the Blues' illustrious midfield trio of Mata, Hazard and Oscar have had to bear a lot of the burden for goal-scoring responsibilities. Addressing this will be one of Mourinho's prime concerns for the new season.

Rumours persist that the club's patience with the errant El Nino has finally worn too thin to support his status at the club any further, so even assuming that the bustling young Belgian Romelu Lukaku returns to his parent club for the new term, Schurrle's acquisition will probably only be the first move in a plan to bolster Chelsea's firepower. It could be an interesting summer for Chelsea fans ' and an expensive one for Roman Abramovich.

UEFA TOP 20 CLUB RANK : ( May 20 / 05 /13 )

1. FC Barcelona
2. FC Bayern München
3. Chelsea FC
4. Real Madrid CF
5. Manchester United FC
6. Arsenal FC
7. FC Internazionale Milano
8. FC Porto
9. SL Benfica
10. Valencia CF
11. Club Atlético de Madrid
12. Olympique Lyonnais
13. FC Shakhtar Donetsk
14. AC Milan
15. FC Schalke 04
16. Olympique de Marseille
17. Liverpool FC
18. PFC CSKA Moskva
19. Paris Saint- Germain FC
20. Juventus

 

Frank Lampard: Special Recognition Award
Juan Mata: Player's Player of the Year Award
Oscar dos Santos: Goal of the Season
Natan Ake: Young Player of the Year Award

Chelsea agree deal to buy £42 million Cavani ?

Chelsea will reportedly finalise a move for Napoli striker Edinson Cavani in the summer, according to reports on the TalkSport website.
The Napoli striker has been heavily linked with Manchester City and Real Madrid in the last few months, and it seemed that they were winning the race for his signature.

However, it is Chelsea who have reportedly won the race and it has been claimed that Cavani will be plying his trade in a blues shirt from next season onwards in a deal that will cost around £42.5 million.

He will also be on a massive £145,000-per-week, which will make him one of the highest paid players at the club.

Chelsea have been eyeing up a striker for a while and many believed that it would be Radamel Falcao who arrives and not Cavani, but that doesn’t matter as he is still one of the world’s best forwards and will be a great addition to an already impressive blues squad.

What We Learned: Aston Villa

1. Frank Lampard – Chelsea legend
2. Lee Mason – questionable officiating
3. Demba Ba in horrible form
4. Aston Villa fans with some disgusting stuff
5. Top 4 secured
6.Terry and Hazard hurt – missing EL final?
7. Does Lampard breaking record change his contract status?

Chelsea to give star brand new deal!

 

There has been some reports on the Daily Mirror website which have claimed Chelsea will offer Frank Lampard a new deal, after potential new boss Jose Mourinho pleaded with them.
Frank Lampard is set to be offered a one year deal to stay at Chelsea.

Mirror Sport revealed on April 5 that Jose Mourinho is desperate for Lampard to be part of his set-up when he takes over at Stamford Bridge this summer.

And Mourinho appears to have been granted his wish as the London club prepare to offer a new deal to the midfielder to try to stop him leaving when his contract expires at the end of the season. (Daily Mirror)

Lampard has been in brilliant form once again this season and it is obvious that he deserved a new deal, so many will be surely happy if and when he signs a new contract

Chelsea’s £60 million target reveals ‘I’m leaving’?

There has been some rumours emerge from abroad which had claimed that Chelsea and Barcelona will be on full alert, as Neymar has reportedly come out and revealed his intentions on his future.

Mundo Deportivo reports some phrases that the attacker would confide to his companions: “I’m leaving”, specifically the farewell will not be until the end In the Confederations Cup. (TuttoMercatoWeb, translated from Italian)

Chelsea would love to add his quality, ability and flair to an already impressive squad and although Barca are seemingly leading the chase, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovic can be very persuasive and may nail down the Brazilians signature when he comes onto the market.

Chelsea close to signing Robert Lewandowski !!

Daily Star reports Dortmund are keen on selling Robert Lewandowski to Chelsea. Key to the Champions League finalists plan is the on-loan Belgian wonderkid Kevin De Bruyne – Dortmund hope to line up a part-exchange deal to ease the Lewandowski
transfer.

Manchester United are also eager tosign the £25 million-rated Lewandowski, but Chelsea now lookmore likely to secure the Pole.
Jose Mourinho is also desperate to complete a deal for Lewandowski for his reported new club, Chelsea. It is believed that Mourinho rates Lewandowski as one of Europe’s best strikers.

Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea rumours increase after buying boxes in Ikea

All rumours and speculation can now officially be killed off and the back pages can move on to more mundane matters – as far as Metro Sport are concerned, Ikea-shopping makes a Stamford Bridge return a done deal.

The Real Madrid boss was yesterday snapped by eagle-eyed shoppers stocking up on boxes and packaging in the Alcorcûn branch of the Swedish store, south-west of the Spanish capital and reportedly forked out over 200 Euros.

If his purchases do genuinely point to a return to London, Mourinho clearly takes preparation seriously in all aspects of his life with Real Madrid’s season not finishing until June 1.

Chelsea fans will be hoping Mourinho’s been sorting more than just the one shopping list over the last few weeks.

Six players that could leave Stamford Bridge this summer

It can be argued that the majority of managers in the Premier League are envious of a squad like Chelsea's.

On paper, Chelsea's squad can be seen as one of the most talented in world football. The Blues host footballers with a variety of domestic honours and European success. Members of the squad also have won international credentials with their countries in major tournaments. There is no evidence of drought in the trophy cabinets at Stamford Bridge.

With an abundance of medal winners on display, it is understandable for fringe players to feel it necessary to move on and play elsewhere to progress at the rate they want to in their careers. No footballer wants to be consigned to the bench or left in the reserves, possibly at the peak times of their career.

In the past, players like Scott Parker and Shaun Wright-Phillips have left Chelsea to enhance as footballers and take vital steps that are necessary for players to try reach their maximum potential.

Given the overflow of talent on show at Chelsea, we take a look at some players that might be better off showcasing their talents away from Stamford Bridge.

Oriol Romeu
Chelsea snapped this youngster up from Barcelona and the man was tipped for great things. With Spanish flair and good passing ability, he still has the chance to play footballer at the highest level. Injury has been a major factor throughout his Chelsea career, but he is still young and would be a good signing for any team.

Florent Malouda
Now, it's easy to say that this man is past his prime. Florent Malouda was consigned to the youth team at the beginning of the season for off field scandals. Malouda will most likely be heading for the exit door come May and would add a wealth of experience to a team looking for his signature.

Marko Marin
Marko came from Germany last Summer with a growing reputation. A number of fine displays for the German national team got a number of clubs around Europe interested in his services. Chelsea made their move fast and since then he has failed to stride forward and establish a place in the first team. With attacking talent including, Eden Hazard, Juan Mata, Oscar and Victor Moses it is hard to see where he fits in at Chelsea. A loan move to another Premier League team would help him gain experience in a league that is already very difficult to play in.

Kevin De Bruyne
Another recent signing at Chelsea, De Bruyne could also be heading for the exit door, even though he has not made an appearance for the first team. De Bruyne has made a number of fine displays, while on loan, in the Bundesliga at Werder Bremen. With rumours of him staying in Germany, maybe it is the best solution for the attacking midfielder.

Yossi Benayoun
Benayoun has been a bit part player for Chelsea since he signed. With a couple of loan spells away from Chelsea it is hard to see whether he will ever get a chance at the club. The writing is on the wall for Yossi and he would be better off at a mid table team.

Frank Lampard
As you know, Frank Lampard is not a fringe player at Chelsea, he is far from it. Of all of the above players, Frank Lampard's name, in the opinion of many, should not be on this list. Year after year "Super Frank" has came up with the goods and got Chelsea out of many tricky situations. With an eye for goal, and the passing abilities of a master footballer, Frank would be a coup for any team, considering they would be getting him for free. Hopefully the hierarchy give Lampard what he deserves so the Stamford Bridge faithful can see him in blue next season.

Jose Mourinho & Chelsea are made for each other

Jose Mourinho seems to be coming to the end of his managerial reign at European giants Real Madrid, but where will he choose to go next in order to continue his successful career?

Personally I have no doubt that the self-styled ‘Special One’ will be back in London at Chelsea by the start of next season following Rafael Benitez’s disclosure that he will leave the club.

Mourinho is worshipped in west London due to his previous spell there where he achieved huge success. During his spell at Chelsea from 2004-07 Mourinho won six trophies including two Premier League titles and an FA Cup. He was also undefeated in all home league games. The only criticism that could be aimed at him was his failure to land the coveted Champions League.

Mourinho will have a choice of clubs which he may like to manage but the lure of finishing off the job he started may well be too much of a temptation for him. He may be enticed by the promise of riches at the likes of Manchester City or Paris St Germain but Roman Abramovich must surely be able to match their financial clout.

Chelsea have undergone a very disappointing season, despite a possible triumph in the Europa League. They should be challenging both Manchester clubs for the Premier League title and must be challenging the top clubs in Europe for the Champions League but in truth they have been well off the pace on both fronts.

There have also been issues surrounding the senior players, such as the contractual sagas of Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard. I am sure Mourinho would not let these issues become as public as what they have done and he would possibly make every effort to keep hold of his best and most influential players.

Mourinho’s previous spell at Chelsea did see him have several disagreements with owner Roman Abramovich which, depending on their severity, may lead to barriers in him returning. Mourinho may also agree with the old saying that you should never return to a former club. However, Mourinho has stressed that he wants to be at a club where he will be loved and wanted and Chelsea is the perfect club for him in that sense.

I am sure Chelsea fans will hope to have the 'Special One' back for next season and I am sure Mourinho will want to be back. If Mourinho does return then expectations of him will be very high. He will need to be challenging for trophies on all fronts almost straight away.

Barcelona are set to bid a massive £40 million for David Luiz

To say there are some shocked faces here in the Football Transfer Tavern after the latest claim from the Daily Mail would be a bit of an understatement after they claimed thatBarcelona are set to bid a massive £40 million for man of the moment David Luiz.

The defender turned midfielder has been in stunning form this season and now it seems that this hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Catalan giants. The club are looking for a defender and one that passes the ball and scores goals like David Luiz not to mention one who is as versatile.

Despite being criticised by some of the media and indeed fans for his mistakes and often rash decisions, Luiz’ stock has grown and grown. Now he is reaping the rewards and the goal scored against FC Basel yesterday evening has given the happy go lucky defender a new found superhero-like status.

Barcelona are still reeling from their massive 7-0 aggregate Champions League loss against Bayern Munich and it seems that Luiz could be the start of some major summer spending. All of this of course hinges on Chelsea being willing to sell as the player is settled in London with John Terry viewing the Brazilian as a future captain of Chelsea. As one of our punters quips, should Jose Mourinho arrive at the club it is hardly likely that he will allow one of his best players to leave – and for Barcelona to boot.

Chelsea set to join three club transfer pursuit

The majority of the Football Transfer Tavern punters are hoping that Jose Mourinho does indeed return to Chelsea this summer and the Daily Mail claim that the Portuguese manager wants Borussia Dortmund’s Robert Lewandowski to join him in West London.

Mourinho has played up the chances of himself returning to England this summer and his love affair with Chelsea is set to start all over again.

While Real Madrid have not confirmed that Mourinho will be leaving, it is widely expected that he will become the next Blues boss to replace interim tactician Rafael Benitez.

If the former Porto and Inter Milan boss does return to West London, he wants Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski to be his first major signing.

The Polish hitman has been in stunning form again this season for the impressive Bundesliga outfit, but a summer move is on the cards and Manchester United and Bayern Munich are currently among the front runners to snap him up.

LEAKED: Chelsea’s second and third kits for 2013/14

 

Chelsea’s kit manufacturers Adidas seem to have had a lot of fun designing the club’s away strip for the forthcoming season, as they appear to have paid tribute to Liverpool striker Luis Suarez in the shirt’s design.

The predominantly white shirt features two horizontal stripes, one red and one blue and looks to resemble a tube of Colgate toothpaste. Could this be in recognition of the teeth marks Suarez left in Blues defender Branislav Ivanovic?

Who knows, but this kit leak is sure to divide Chelsea fans, with some happy to see kits with a red trim – historically in respect of the Chelsea Pensioners – while others feel the club should distance themselves from the colour of many rival sides.

A design for the club’s third kit for next season has also been leaked.

This black and white strip resembles Chelsea’s second strip in 2008-09, as well as designs by the club’s former kit manufacturer Umbro in 2004-05 and 2005-06. 

Manchester United - Chelsea Preview

With the away side's place in the Europa League final secured, they turn their attentions to Champions League qualification as they attempt to get a result against the champions

PROBABLE LINEUPS

MANCHESTER UNITED De Gea Rafael, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra Jones, Carrick Valencia, Rooney, Kagawa Van Persie

CHELSEA Cech Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Terry, Cole Luiz, Mikel Mata, Oscar, Hazard Ba

Sir Alex Ferguson looks set to make a solitary change from the team that faced Arsenal as Shinji Kagawa seems primed to replace Nani, operating off the left wing.

Ashley Young (ankle) is definitely ruled out while Nemanja Vidic (knee) and Danny Welbeck (calf) are also doubtful as the strains that ruled them both out of the Arsenal game persist.

Rafa Benitez, meanwhile, appears ready to make his now-customary changes to the starting line-up as various players look set to make way from the team that beat Basel 3-1 on Thursday.

John Terry, Ashley Cole, John Obi Mikel, Juan Mata, Oscar and Demba Ba are all expected to replace
Gary Cahill, Ryan Bertrand, Frank Lampard, Ramires, Victor Moses and Fernando Torres from the previous starting XI.

There are no serious injury problems for the Blues, though Marko Marin, unlikely to feature anyway, may only be fit enough for the bench as he continues to recover from a thigh problem.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Over the course of the Premier League era,Manchester United have lost more games (13) and conceded more goals (55) against Chelsea than they have against any other team in the league.
• However, Chelsea have managed just one clean sheet in their last 17 league trips to Old Trafford - a 3-0 win in December 2001, with a goal from Mario Melchiot followed by a double from Eidur Gudjohnsen. Bet365 offer 4/7 for both teams to score in this match.
• United have hit the woodwork more often than any other team in the Premier League this season - 22 times, while Chelsea have hit it the fewest amount of times - five.
• Though it is doubtful whether he will feature in this match, of all the players to have played over 150 Premier League games, the Red Devils' captain, Nemanja Vidic, has the best win percentage of any player, having played 184 and won 136.
• Chelsea skipper John Terry (pictured right), however, boasts a similarly impressive record as the Blues have won 67 per cent of Premier League games with him playing this season and just 48% without him.
• The Blues have scored 15 headed goals this league season - the most in the Premier League.

Benitez named manager of the month for April

Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez has been named April's Manager of the Month after his side went four games unbeaten to strengthen their top-four hopes.

The latest accolade comes just hours after Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson said that Benitez was only interested in compiling his CV while in charge at Stamford Bridge.

The last time a Chelsea manager won the award was back in April 2011, just before Carlo Ancelotti was sacked by the club.

Even though he had to put up with a torrent of criticism from Chelsea fans, Benitez has restored his reputation by creating a stylish side who have become favourites for third place in the Premier League and have qualified for the Europa League final.

Ferguson had said earlier on Friday: 'To be fair to him, he has done a good job in the last few weeks, but he is concerned about his CV. He does refer to it a lot.'

2012/2013 Managers of the Month

David Moyes (Everton) - September 2012

Alex Ferguson (Man United) - October 2012

Steve Clarke (West Brom) - November 2012

Andre Villas-Boas (Tottenham) - December 2012

Brian McDermott (Reading) - January 2013

Andrew Villas-Boas (Tottenham) - February 2013

David Moyes (Everton) - March 2013

Rafael Benitez (Chelsea) - April 2013

Transfer News: Mourinho, Alonso, Markovic Heading To Stamford Bridge ?

In one quick swoop, Chelsea could land themselves one of the most respected players in football and one of the winningest coaches in team history.

With Real Madrid’s manager Jose Mourinho steadily dropping hints that he wants out of the Bernabeu, Chelsea could land the leader that helped them win two Premier League titles and one FA Cup at a relatively discount price,according to The Independent.

Mourinho may also bring 31-year-old midfielder Xabi Alonso with him. Madrid reportedly offered Alonso a two-year contract extension, but he is keener on high-tailing it back to the Premier League, with former club Liverpool also on his mind.

That same report suggested Alonso and Mourinho have grown close, and where the coach goes, so might the player.

Following Madrid’s 4-3 aggregate loss to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League semi-finals, Mourinho said he would like to be where he is wanted, a veiled shot suggesting officials and fans at the Bernabeu haven’t exactly made him feel welcome recently.

Mourinho signed an extension with Madrid after last season, but the club could reduce the £20 million buyout fee so they could move on with presumed frontrunner, Paris Saint-German’s Carlo Ancelotti, according to The Daily Mail.

Landing Mourinho at a discount price could help the Blues offset the £22 million market value for Alonso. The Spanish native made his name with Liverpool from 2004 to 2009, with 143 appearances and 15 goals, and while his production dipped slightly at the Bernabeu, he could help Chelsea next season should they make the Champions League. However, Frank Lampard was offered a one-year extension, according to The Independent, which could complicate a move for Alonso.

Should Mourinho land back at Chelsea, he could be an excellent tutor for young Serbian prospect Lazar Markovic, whose long been a target for the Blues.

According to the Daily Mirror, former Chelsea manager Avram Grant coached the 19-year-old striker last season at Partizan Belgrade, and is now trying to persuade him to join Chelsea over Inter Milan.

Chelsea’s chances for the Champions League rest heavily on their next two Premier League matches with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, but no matter the outcome interim manager Rafa Benitez is not expected to be on sidelines at Stamford Bridge next season.

Yet there appears to be a divide amongst Chelsea's player about who should be their manager.

A report from Serbian newspaper highlighted comments from Blues defender Branislav Ivanovic, saying “everyone” at Chelsea would cheer for Mourinho’s return.

Juan Mata’s recent comments actually showed more support for Benitez,according to The Telegraph.

“Rafa’s a manager who did great seasons at every club he’s been at,” Mata said. “We’re working really, really well under him. For me and the players, he’s a great manager. We are trying to be in third position and having a chance to win a trophy, so maybe the season in the end will look good for us and that will be because of his job. Maybe it’ll be a great season in the end."

Jose Mourinho Agrees July 1 Return To Chelsea

Jose Mourinho has agreed a return to Chelsea and will likely join the club on July 1, according to a report in The Sun newspaper tonight.

Mourinho is still under contract at Real Madrid, but unless there are any unexpected hitches, The Special One will rejoin the Stamford Bridge club on a £10 million-a-year package.

Mourinho and Abramovich were spotted having dinner together in London on Thursday.

Don’t be surprised if both Chelsea and Real Madrid release official statements tomorrow denying that the story is true. Chelsea won’t break the news until a contract is signed, and Real Madrid will want to speak with Mourinho to decide what his future holds. Nevertheless, it looks very likely that Mourinho will be heading to Chelsea this summer unless a major obstacle gets in his way.

What’s your opinion about Jose Mourinho rejoining Chelsea? Will he be able to surpass his accomplishments in his first stint as manager? Will The Special One be able to knock Sir Alex Ferguson off his perch again at Manchester United? Post your opinions in the comments section below.

What We Learned : Basel

1. Luiz in a permanent midfield role

2. Chelsea’s best chance at silverware

3. Perfect starting 11 was chosen.

4. Torres regains his awkward romance with the Europa League

5. Marko Marin looks extinct

6. Moses has been really good over the two legs

Vote for goal of the season

GOAL OF THE SEASON VOTING NOW OPEN

Voting for the 2012/13 Goal of the Season award is now open, with 10 memorable strikes to choose from :

The winner will be announced at the club's Player of the Year awards ceremony at Stamford Bridge on Thursday 16 May.

Ramires was the winner of last season's award following his unforgettable chip away against Barcelona in the Champions League.

Supporters can choose from the following goals:

Branislav Ivanovic v Wigan Athletic

Our first goal of the season, and a brilliant team effort. John Terry, Branislav Ivanovic, Juan Mata and Frank Lampard combined inside our own half to release Eden Hazard. The debutant then eased away from his marker before laying the ball into the path of the advancing Ivanovic, who opted to ignore the supporting Fernando Torres and drove his strike into the back of the net to give us the lead.

Fernando Torres v Newcastle United

Early in the season, the Spanish striker doubled our lead against Alan Pardew's side shortly before the break in emphatic fashion, exchanging passes with Hazard on the edge of the penalty area before bending a delightful strike with the outside of his boot beyond Tim Krul into the top corner.

Oscar v Juventus

The youngster's full debut for the club, and what an introduction. Having already given us the lead moments earlier, the Brazilian took an Ashley Cole pass in his stride, eased away from two defenders with one deft touch and curled an absolutely exquisite strike beyond the despairing dive of Gianluigi Buffon.

Gary Cahill v Tottenham Hotspur

Any Chelsea goal at White Hart Lane is one to be celebrated, but Cahill's will live long in the memory for its pure quality. With the game goalless, the Blues took a deserved lead when Hazard's corner was headed straight into the path of Cahill, who crashed an unstoppable volley into the roof of the net from outside the box, giving Brad Friedel no chance, but more importantly his side the advantage.

Juan Mata's second goal v Tottenham Hotspur

Moments earlier the Spaniard had made it 2-2 with a low drive into the bottom corner, but he restored our lead in style, latching on to a wonderful pass from Hazard before calmly slotting his strike into the back of the net. It was a brilliant individual display by Mata as we went on to win the game 4-2.

Eden Hazard v Stoke City

Hazard has made a habit of scoring spectacular goals during his first season in English football, and this was certainly one to remember. Leading 3-0, the three points were already secure, but as the game edged towards its conclusion, the Belgian picked the ball up 30 yards from goal and fired a powerful strike past Asmir Begovic to cap a wonderful away win.

Frank Lampard v Newcastle United

Trailing 1-0 at St James' Park, Lampard equalised 10 minutes into the second half in stunning fashion, pouncing on a loose ball 25 yards from goal and firing into the roof of the net, leaving Tim Krul clutching thin air.

Eden Hazard v West Ham United

Hazard put the seal on a marvellous individual display with the goal his performance had merited against the Hammers, and what a goal it was. Hazard fed Mata, before contolling the Spaniard's return pass in the air, cutting inside two West Ham defenders and firing low into the bottom corner, giving Jussi Jaaskelainen absolutely no chance.

Demba Ba v Manchester United (FA Cup)

Demba Ba booked our place in the FA Cup semi-final with the only goal of the game in our sixth round replay against Manchester United, racing on to an intelligent Mata pass, before swivelling and dispatching his volley beyond David De Gea into the top corner all in one movement. A goal fit to win any game.

David Luiz v Fulham

A truly stunning strike by David Luiz, and a goal which set us on our way to a crucial win at Craven Cottage. With the deadlock yet to be broken, and little to choose between the teams, the Brazilian collected a pass from Hazard, before being allowed to advance unchallenged, and it was a decision Fulham were made to pay for when he hit an absolutely magnificent strike into the top corner from 30 yards.

Deals agreed: Mourinho & Falcao are Chelsea-bound

After months of negotiations the European champions have reached a breakthrough in their efforts to bring back the Special One and recruit the prolific Atletico Madrid striker

Jose Mourinho has agreed a deal to re-join Chelsea as their manager this summer – and is poised to bring €59 million striker Radamel Falcao with him.

Goal.com understands that the Real Madrid boss is expected to be unveiled in the Stamford Bridge hot seat at the end of the season following a breakthrough in negotiations with the club over the last week.

The Chelsea high command, led by Roman Abramovich, have been in talks with Mourinho’s camp for months about a sensational return for the man who led the club to two Premier League titles during his first spell in charge from 2004-2007.

Negotiations have centred on how much control Mourinho will have in recruiting players and staff, as well as his place in a management structure where low-profile technical director Michael Emenalo holds the levers of power.

It is believed that, following a series of twists and turns during discussions, an agreement in principle has been reached for the Portuguese to take over from interim manager Rafael Benitez this summer.

Mourinho is expected to put pen to paper and formalise the deal when he ends his three-year spell in Madrid at the end of next month.

A report in Germany last week claimed that Chelsea were on the brink of landing both Mourinho and Atletico Madrid’s spearhead Falcao.

Goal.com understands that the European champions have since made further progress with both deals and are confident that Mourinho will announce the prolific Colombian, who is also represented by super agent Jorge Mendes, as one of his first signings.

Chelsea, who came close to landing Falcao last August and then again in January, have been in talks with Atletico top brass for weeks about the structure of a deal which is complicated by uncertainty over the future of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who has been extremely impressive since joining the Spanish club on loan at the start of last season.

Chelsea are prepared to allow the Belgian keeper to continue his development by staying in Madrid for another season if it eases Falcao's path to west London.

The Blues have made it clear that they are willing to activate the €59m release clause in the striker’s Atletico contract.

The deal is a complex one because of third-party ownership issues - with Mendes part of a consortium holding an interest in Falcao - but Chelsea have intensified their efforts to land the front man in a bid to ensure the transfer can be completed.

The London club have made Falcao a contract offer and it is believed that personal terms have already been agreed on a deal that is likely to make the striker one of the highest paid players in Premier League history.

Goal.com exclusively revealed in March that the former Porto man is chasing a deal worth around €295,000 per week.

Mourinho and senior Chelsea officials regard the Colombian, who has scored 32 goals in 36 games for Atletico this season, as an upgrade on current front men Fernando Torres and Demba Ba.

Falcao has the pedigree and star quality which Chelsea thought they had acquired with the £50m purchase of Torres in January 2010, but the Spaniard is now likely to be put up for sale to help fund the purchase of the player earmarked to be his replacement.