Chelsea are set to make their first transfer of the summer after agreeing on a fee for on-loan star Mateo Kovacic. The Croatian international spent last season on loan at the club is expected to sign for the club in a transfer worth £40 million.
The Blues are currently on a transfer ban but can sign Kovacic as they would not be obliged to register him as a new player as he is already on their books.
Kovacic was a regular starter under former manager Maurizio Sarri and played on the left side of the midfield alongside N’Golo Kante and Jorginho.
It is understood that Chelsea are keen on retaining the midfielder due to his quality. Spanish sides Real Madrid are open to selling the player who has never impressed at the club.
There have been concerns from the Blues supporters that the Croatia international could block the pathway of other youth players.
This is not true as Loftus-Cheek was able to thrive despite competition with Kovacic for the position.
£40 million is a good fee for a player of his caliber and it would be a good transfer for the midfielder.
Furthermore, Loftus-Cheek is out with a long-term injury and the club need players that can cover up his position in the team. Kovacic fits the bill and the transfer is a no-brainer.
Chelsea could also retain forward Tammy Abraham ahead of the new season. The forward has been seen by Chelsea fans as a quality long-term solution but has failed to make the grade at the club.
The arrival of Lampard to the club could be the opportunity that he needs. It would be interesting to see whether he turns out to be a Didier Drogba esque forward or Franco di Santo who failed at the club.