Havertz to Real Madrid ‘close’, Benzema and Kante ‘to join’ Saudi League, Liverpool eye Mac Allister

Chelsea stars break silence on Mount links

Chelsea stars Reece James and Ben Chilwell have broken their silence on Mason Mount’s future.

The pair were in attendance at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya ahead of the F1 Spanish Grand Prix.

Sky Sports caught up with James and when asked whether he would be sad to see Mount leave, he said: “Yeah of course.

“If he goes everyone will be sad to see him go.”

Speaking to Chilwell shortly after, the left-back said: “I mean that’s none of my business personally.

“But I’d love him to stay, he’s my best mate.

“So I would love him to stay but it’s not my business so I can’t really comment on that.”

EXCLUSIVE – Allardyce wanted Leeds return in new role

Sam Allardyce wanted to stay at Leeds in an “upstairs” role and help the club find their next young manager, writes ALAN NIXON.

Allardyce failed to save them from relegation as boss but was keen to carry on as a general manager or director of football.

Leeds are looking for an off-field figure after Victor Orta’s departure and Allardyce thinks he could fill that role.

The Whites are considering West Brom boss Carlos Corberan and Carlos Carvalhal after his good work at Sheffield Wednesday.

Read the full story HERE.

Chelsea offer Mendy in Onana swap deal

Chelsea are ready to offer Eduoard Mendy to Inter Milan in an effort to sign Andre Onana, according to reports in Italy.

The Blues are eyeing a new goalkeeper to upgrade on current No1 Kepa Arrizzabalaga.

And according to Foot Mercato, Chelsea have identified Onana as this player, with Mauricio Pochettino favouring him over other options.

The report says they will offer their goalkeeper as part of a cash-plus-player deal.

Caicedo ‘agrees personal terms’

Moises Caicedo has agreed personal terms with Arsenal, according to reports.

However, the Brighton star is still unsure where he wants to play next season, with Chelsea set to offer him a more lucrative deal.

According to Ecuadorian media outlet Teradeportes, Arsenal’s Champions League qualification sees them leading the race with terms being agreed.

The report adds Chelsea’s package is likely to have larger finances which could sway him towards Stamford Bridge over the Emirates.

Hazard-ous findings

Eden Hazard is now without a club after Real Madrid ripped up his £400,00-a-week contract.

The Belgian was hoping to see out the final year of his lucrative deal in the Spanish capital.

But his stay will now come to an end.

A statement confirmed: “Real Madrid C. F. and Eden Hazard have reached an agreement by which the player is disassociated from the club as of June 30, 2023.

“Eden Hazard has been part of our club for four seasons, in which he has won 8 titles: 1 European Cup, 1 Club World Cup, 1 European Super Cup, 2 Leagues, 1 Copa del Rey and 2 Spanish Super Cups.

“Real Madrid wants to express its affection for Eden Hazard and wishes him and his entire family the best of luck in this new stage.”

Chelsea fans joked him leaving was an act of “sacrifice” after Kai Havertz was linked with a transfer to Madrid.

One said: “Hazard sacrificed himself so Chelsea could get rid of Havertz… club legend.”

Another agreed: “Hazard sacrificed himself for the greater good. Proper Chels.”

EXCLUSIVE – Palace opt against Butland extension

RANGERS are clear to sign former England keeper Jack Butland after Crystal Palace passed on the chance to extend his contract, writes ALAN NIXON.

The Eagles had the option of triggering a new one-year deal with Butland — who has been on loan with Manchester United — but decided against it.

Palace already have two top keepers in Sam Johnstone and Vicente Guaita, making that department well covered and also expensive to run.

Rangers have been keen on Butland, 30, for a year but only pressed on with a deal in recent weeks.

Read the full story HERE.