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Chelsea are keeping tabs on Pau Torres ahead of a potential move for the defender according to The Mirror (10th May, p.48, via Chelsea Chronicle).

What is the latest on Pau Torres to Chelsea?

The Blues have struggled to get going this season in the Premier League, with the club currently sat in eleventh place in the division. That's despite the fact that new owner Todd Boehly has bankrolled the Stamford Bridge outfit since taking over, helping the club to add stars such as Joao Felix and Enzo Fernandez.

It hasn't paid off so far though and ultimately ended up costing Graham Potter his job with Chelsea. Even interim manager Frank Lampard has found it hard to generate results from the side, having managed only one win so far during his short time in charge.

Ahead of a new managerial appointment in the summer then – believed to be former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino – the club will be desperate to have a transfer plan in place to add even more quality to the side.

One name that is being linked with a potential switch to Stamford Bridge is Pau Torres, according to The Mirror via Chelsea Chronicle. The report claims that the incoming Pochettino likes the defender and in order to try and mould the squad to his liking, he could add the 26-year-old to his backline. The only stumbling block is that they will face competition from Aston Villa to win the race for the man with a £55m release clause.

Would Pau Torres be a good signing for Chelsea?

The Villareal man looks like he could be a solid signing for any defence in the Premier League. He's exactly the type of centre-back you would want – good with the ball at his feet, able to marshall those around him and not afraid to put in a tackle.

This is showcased by his progressive passes rank in La Liga – Torres has 185 this campaign, which puts him within the top ten in the entire division in that stat despite his position as part of a backline. It shows that he is not afraid to pick out a pass and can do so with aplomb. He also ranks sixth for clearances in La Liga (130) and has an outstanding level of ball control, ranking first for progressive carrying distance (6987). He's a modern defender in every sense of the word then and can contribute effectively in both elements of play.

He's also been praised highly by those involved in the game. Javi Calleja, a former coach of his, called him an "extraordinary talent" for example. From someone who knows the defender well, it is high praise.

Torres then could instantly upgrade the Blues' defence and with his ability to drive the ball forward, he could also have a positive impact at the other end of the field too if he does sign.

Crysencio Summerville has endured an up-and-down season with Leeds United and will need to find a level of consistency if he is going to make it as a regular starter at the club.

The Dutch winger enjoyed a superb run of form in the build-up to the World Cup under Jesse Marsch, notching four goals in four games, but has failed to find the back of the net since then, with just two assists to his name in the 19 appearances he has made since domestic football returned.

He did prove his quality with a goal against Spurs in the final game before the tournament in Qatar, with Michael Owen dubbing him as "exceptional".

At just 21, Summerville still has plenty of time to achieve his potential at Leeds but perhaps needs a new, attack-focused manager to arrive at the club in order to rediscover the form he showed briefly earlier in the campaign.

Could Leeds appoint Arne Slot?

One such man could be Arne Slot, as the Feyenoord man continues to be linked with an Elland Road switch having turned the Leeds job down back in February following Marsch's sacking.

The Athletic suggest that the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace and Leeds are all interested in appointing the 44-year-old, who led Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title this season, having helped them reach the inaugural Europa Conference League final in 2022.

There, he worked with Leeds star Luis Sinisterra and could be reunited with the Colombian at Elland Road, although it seems a prerequisite that Sam Allardyce will have to keep the Yorkshire outfit in the Premier League if they are going to attract a manager of Slot's reputation this summer.

Could Slot reignite Summerville at Leeds?

However, in the event that he does take over at Leeds, he could be looking at building his side around talented youngsters such as Summerville, especially after the tricky winger first made his name in the Eredivisie with Feyenoord's academy and ADO Den Haag, managing two goals and three assists in 21 league appearances on loan there in the 2019/20 campaign.

Slot certainly has experience in getting the best out of his wingers, as Sinisterra managed a hugely impressive 12 goals and seven assists last season during what was a real breakout campaign.

Meanwhile, one of the club's current wingers in Sebastian Szymanski boasts nine goals and four assists in the Dutch top-flight this campaign, with an impressive 7.14 average rating from WhoScored. That just so happens to be far better than anyone in Leeds' squad.

The title-winning coach could reignite Summerville with his attacking style of play, which was complimented by Dutch football expert Marcel van der Kraan on talkSPORT earlier this year.

He said: “He is very similar to Pep Guardiola, his ideas are very similar, he is a massive fan of Pep and he plays the same time.

“He goes ultra-attacking, he is almost like a maniac. Not on the touchline but it is fantastic to see how he has turned an average side into a wonderful attacking machine."

If Slot takes the job at Leeds and can work his attacking magic with Summerville, then he could live up to his obvious potential at Elland Road after a difficult 2023.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly looking ahead to the summer transfer window, as just one game remains of the Premier League 2022/23 campaign.

This season has been one of many ups and downs for Wolves, who looked deflated and in poor form leading up to the dismissal of Bruno Lage.

Molineux found its saviour in Julen Lopetegui, who has transformed the side and will get the chance to mould his squad during the summer break after inheriting Lage’s team back in November.

The Spaniard will have a number of areas he wishes to strengthen this summer, with the latest link being one that could add some needed competition to the defence.

What’s the latest on Dodo to Wolves?

According to Brazilian outlet Torcedores – via Sport Witness – Fiorentina are looking for replacement options at right-back, with their current option Dodo attracting Premier League interest.

The report states that the 24-year-old is wanted by Wolves, but they will have to be aware of further interest from Newcastle United.

The Brazilian is valued at £13.5m as per Football Transfers, but the club can be expected to ask for more due to his contract running until 2027.

What could Dodo bring to Wolves?

Likened to Premier League ace Oleksandr Zinchenko by FBref, the Serie A right-back could provide some worthy competition to Lopetegui’s side.

Current right-back Nelson Semedo has been hot and cold since signing in 2020 from Barcelona, notably being dubbed a "liability" by Tim Spiers. However, a rival for a first-team spot could spur the Portuguese ace to higher performances.

The 24-year-old has averaged a Sofascore match rating of 6.73 in Serie A this season, making 31 appearances and contributing to six clean sheets in defence.

As per FBref, the Taubate-born defender ranks highly in comparison to others in his position in Europe this season, particularly through his attacking attributes, averaging 5.57 progressive passes per 90, showcasing his ability to transition the ball forward as he sits in the top 12% on the continent in that area.

In comparison to Semedo, the £32k-per-week star is more impressive in this area, with the 29-year-old Wolves defender registering 3.72 per 90, as per FBref.

A similar pattern arises in some aspects of defence also, with the Fiorentina man winning an average of 57% of his total duels this season in Serie A, with the Portuguese winning 49% in the Premier League – as per Sofascore.

As every club in the Premier League is aware, having depth in a squad is essential in order to compete for silverware and more advanced finishes in the table.

While Semedo is a strong option for Wolves to lead their wide-area defence with, it’s important to introduce healthy competition to raise individual performance and rotate without depleting in a strenuous schedule.

A further introduction to right-back would be progressive for Lopetegui’s side, only time will tell if the Brazilian arrives at Molineux this summer.

Chelsea's woeful season finally came to an end on Sunday afternoon, with the Blues finishing in 12th place after a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.

The game was Frank Lampard's last as interim manager, with the Chelsea legend managing just one win in his time at the club, with Mauricio Pochettino hoping to enjoy a far better spell when takes over in the summer.

What happened in Chelsea vs Newcastle?

Lampard opted to start youngsters Lewis Hall and Noni Madueke for his final game, with Newcastle also making changes for what was essentially a dead rubber game at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues found themselves in a familiar position in the first half when Anthony Gordon was left with the freedom of the penalty box to slot past Kepa Arrizabalaga from Matt Targett's cross.

However, Lampard's side would haul themselves level when Enzo Fernandez's quick free-kick found Raheem Sterling in a dangerous position, and his shot was turned into his own goal by Kieran Trippier.

Although both sides had chances in the second half, with the visitors hitting the crossbar late on, it would finish 1-1, with the Stamford Bridge faithful once again going home dissatisfied.

There were a number of underwhelming performances once again from Chelsea's starters, although it was arguably the much-maligned Kai Havertz who disappointed the most.

How did Havertz play against Newcastle?

As per Sofascore, the Germany international would earn a 6.7/10 rating for his performance, with only Conor Gallagher (6.4) rated lower of the Chelsea players to start the game.

Hauled off just before the hour mark, the 23-year-old mustered just 24 touches of the ball, which was fewer than Kepa, who managed 38.

During his time on the pitch, the former Bayer Leverkusen man would contribute no shots and no dribbles, which is hardly what you would expect from the starting striker, but this is what Chelsea fans have become accustomed to with Havertz over the years, with an average of just two shots and 0.5 dribbles per game in the top flight this season.

Previously dubbed as "so weak" by talkSPORT pundit Dean Ashton, the £150k-per-week frontman has done little to suggest that he can be relied upon as the main man in Chelsea's side, as he managed just seven goals in the top flight again this season, with a striker surely on Todd Boehly's shortlist.

Following another anonymous display, Havertz may well be questioning whether he lasts the summer transfer window, with sales surely on the cards if Boehly wants to make new signings, especially with the arrival of Christopher Nkunku.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is a huge fan of Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips and wants the club to pursue a possible transfer this summer.

The Magpies completed their brilliant 2022/23 Premier League season with a 1-1 draw against Chelsea. They will compete in the Champions League next season and appear to be on the hunt for additions in the transfer window this summer.

What's the latest news on Kalvin Phillips to Newcastle?

According to Football Transfers correspondent Steve Kay, Howe wants both Phillips and Leicester City midfielder James Maddison to join the club this summer.

Kay stated that Manchester City are "open to selling" Phillips, but it remains to be seen if the midfielder will stay at the Etihad and fight for his place or choose to join Newcastle where the promise of game time could be greater.

Due to the Magpies' top-four finish, Phillips would still be able to compete in the Champions League next season. Maddison is another top target, although Tottenham are also interested but cannot offer the chance to play in Europe's prestigious knockout competition.

Kay reports that Maddison "is way up on the list" and after being "in contact with his camp for a long time, he’s a big possibility." Speaking exclusively to NUFC Blog regarding the two, Football Transfers correspondent Steve Kay said:

"Eddie Howe is a big, big fan of Kalvin Phillips. City are open to selling and Howe would like to bring him in to add Premier League experience.

"He’s still only 27, can fill a position Newcastle are looking to improve and Howe believes he can be another strong voice in the dressing room, helping younger players develop too."

"Newcastle are looking for proven players and that brings me to James Maddison, who is way up on the list. I think he’ll sign. They’ve been in contact with his camp for a long time. He’s a big possibility.

"Tottenham are interested in Maddison. However, he wants Champions League football – something Spurs can’t offer now – so everything points to Newcastle at the minute. They are the favourites."

How many appearances has Kalvin Phillips made this season?

Due to injury issues and Pep Guardiola's preference, the 27-year-old made just 21 appearances in all competitions, including only 12 appearances in the Premier League. His contributions this season amounted to just 593 minutes, according to Transfermarkt.

In total, he missed 11 games through injury this season, and yet he has emerged as a target for Newcastle. Despite his injury struggles, Phillips, dubbed by Yannick Bolasie as a "monster", remains a talented midfielder that could still be a valuable addition to the Newcastle squad.

The £150,000-a-week England international has plenty of top-flight experience and continues to be a regular in Gareth Southgate's international squad, turning out on 26 occasions now, so the Magpies could make a shrewd move by signing Phillips, and by the looks of it, it could be one to watch with Howe a fan.

Chelsea, despite all the riches expended since Todd Boehly's arrival, boast a squad far from the finished article.

Mauricio Pochettino is the man who has been tasked with solving the puzzle presented in west London, as a willing challenger to unearth the numerous high-potential stars at Stamford Bridge.

However, to do so he must first foster the correct environment, likely having assurances that he will be given time to work his magic. The success he earned in transforming Tottenham Hotspur did not come overnight, and the same is certainly the case for his latest managerial venture.

He will need to add some key additions of his own in the coming summer window to build upon a year where 17 new players were welcomed and two managers have been sacked.

Whilst investing in this high-risk high-reward strategy has allowed them to stockpile some of Europe's finest young talent, a few key positions remain bare.

Naturally, a centre-forward will be high on the list of priorities, but a true defensive midfielder will be just as imperative to unlock Enzo Fernandez. Therefore, it will please fans that earlier in the week it was reported that Chelsea had opened talks with Sporting CP over the signing of Manuel Ugarte.

The touted €60m (£52m) price tag would mark a small sum if it meant unleashing their British transfer record signing.

Would Manuel Ugarte be a N'Golo Kante upgrade?

In acquiring a player who operates with a defence-first mindset, the Uruguay international could act as a screen for the back four to allow their Argentine maestro to truly thrive.

Although his 7.17 average rating has been upheld by 1.1 key passes and 2.5 tackles per game, in pushing him from the six role into the eight, he could add to his two assists in 18 starts, via Sofascore.

After all, his potential new teammate has mustered 3.9 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game too (via Sofascore) and therefore ranks in the top 1% for tackles and the top 3% for interceptions per 90 when compared to other midfielders across Europe.

Whilst writer Raj Chohan might have been lambasting the midfielder when branding his choices on the ball as "aggressive", it is this mindset that arguably makes him such a combative and frightening presence defensively in the engine room. Regardless, his 92% pass accuracy suggests otherwise.

Such defensive excellence could easily earn comparisons to the enigmatic N'Golo Kante, who is rarely seen around these parts nowadays due to his persistent injury problems.

The ageing ace has been ravaged with ailments since his move from Leicester City, yet when fit represents one of the division's most relentless midfielders.

Last season showcased this, as he started 21 games and managed to maintain a 7.12 average rating.

This was a figure supported by 2.3 tackles and 1.3 interceptions per game, which was impressive but highlighted a decline from times gone by, via Sofascore. He is admittedly nowhere near the level of his potential 22-year-old successor, who Pochettino will surely prefer.

Given the youthful revolution Boehly has seemingly planned, the 32-year-old is a prime example of those who need replacing in west London and the sooner the club can find his successor, the better because he cannot be trusted like the Kante of old, as evident above.

Few fit the bill more appropriately than Ugarte, to graciously take the mantle from this legendary midfield enforcer, who is a shadow of the player who managed 4.7 tackles per game back in the 2015/16 term.

According to reports out of Spain, Barcelona forward Ilias Akhomach has rejected a "better financial offer" from Arsenal in favour of a move to Villarreal, where he is now set to arrive.

Who could Arsenal sign this summer?

Mikel Arteta and the Gunners have already undergone preparations for this summer transfer window, with sporting director Edu confirming as much back in April.

The Premier League giants narrowly lost out to reigning champions Man City in the title race last season, despite being in pole position for much of the campaign.

Arsenal are now tasked with building upon the positives of 2022/2023, namely their fierce challenge, and there are currently many transfer targets who have been mooted by the press.

The north Londoners wish to strengthen in midfield, with West Ham's Declan Rice, Brighton's Moises Caicedo and City captain Ilkay Gundogan all attracting their interest.

Meanwhile, defensive reinforcements are also a possibility, as links to Galatasary's Sacha Boey continue to heat up. Another starlet who Arsenal have been targeting is Akhomach from Barca, who is set to leave the Camp Nou as a free agent.

However, according to Sport, it appears Arteta and co may be resigned to missing out on their target. Indeed, the attacker is apparently set to arrive at Villarreal instead, despite receiving a "better financial offer" to join Arsenal.

Akhomach was convinced by the Villarreal project despite advances from both Arteta's side and Leeds United, especially considering their reputation for developing young talents and offering them routes into the first team.

The 19-year-old believes he could be granted more opportunities under Quique Setién and it is believed he will be a new Villarreal player "in the coming days".

Who is Ilias Akhomach?

The forward, who has featured for Xavi's first team, has been praised in recent seasons for his sky high potential with Las Palmas boss and former Barca B coach Francisco Javier García Pimienta holding Akhomach in very high esteem.

Indeed, Pimienta specifically drew attention to his real "quality" and "brave" style of play – tipping him to be a success.

“He’s a cheeky, brave player with a lot of quality, but he’s only 16," said the coach in 2020 (via Sport).

"We have very young players and we can’t load them with too much responsibility.

“What’s clear is that the academy is bringing through a lot of players and he’s one that we will have in mind this season, for sure.”

Akhomach didn't exactly have the best 22/23 campaign, scoring just one goal in 23 league appearances for Barca's youth side, but a fresh start could be exactly what he needs.

Unfortunately for Arteta, it won't be at Arsenal.

Manchester United are keen to bolster their midfield this summer; however, Frenkie De Jong is unlikely to move to Old Trafford from Barcelona, journalist Dean Jones has suggested.

What's the latest transfer news involving Frenkie De Jong?

Earlier this year. talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook intimated in his transfer notebook that De Jong has been made one of Manchester United's 'top summer targets' and revealed that Erik Ten Hag would be keen on a reunion with the midfield playmaker he coached at Ajax.

The report states that partnering Casemiro in midfield could appeal to De Jong alongside the prospect of playing in the Champions League with Manchester United.

Of course, Manchester United heavily courted De Jong last year and they even reached an agreement on a deal worth €85 million (£73 million) for the Netherlands international with Barcelona, as per The Athletic.

Nevertheless, no transfer transpired and De Jong formed a key part of Barcelona's first La Liga title triumph since 2019, as per BBC Sport.

Capology understand that De Jong earns around €721,154 (£619,283) on a contract that runs until June 2026 at the Catalan giants.

Writing in his column for GIVEMESPORT, journalist Jones doesn't believe that De Jong will arrive at Old Trafford this summer despite the recurring rumours that he could become a Manchester United player one day.

Jones suggested: "They also need to sort the midfield, where Marcel Sabitzer was on loan last season and Fred and Scott McTominay prepare to have their partnership broken up once and for all. We have seen them make early strides for Mason Mount but look out for the likes of Romeo Lavia. Other players they admire are £230,000-a-week star Leon Goretzka – described as being an "extraordinary" player – Declan Rice and Adrien Rabiot but top target Frenkie De Jong is off limits."

Would Frenkie De Jong be a good signing for Manchester United?

De Jong is a world-class midfielder capable of functioning in a variety of different roles and would be a brilliant signing for Manchester United if any deal was to arise over the next few years.

In 2022/23, the Netherlands international made 43 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona, registering two goals and four assists, as per Transfermarkt.

As per WhoScored, De Jong was rarely wasteful in possession during the season and maintained a pass success rate of 91.4% in La Liga.

The 26-year-old was also a key chance provider for La Blaugrana and amassed 116 shot-creating actions across the campaign, as per FBRef.

Despite this, it looks unlikely that De Jong will join Manchester United in the immediate future, putting a reunion between the former Ajax man and Red Devils boss Ten Hag on ice for now.

Tottenham Hotspur have “asked about” signing Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba and it’s “likely a deal will happen”, according to reports.

Will Spurs sign a defender this summer?

At the back, it was a season to forget for Spurs last campaign, with the Lilywhites conceding more top flight goals than any other side above 15th in the Premier League table.

One of new manager Ange Postecoglou’s main priorities will surely be reinforcing what has proven to be a fragile defence, with Tottenham also thought to be closing in on highly-rated Empoli goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario for £16.4 million.

Postecoglou, as per recent rumours, has given the green-light for his club to sign a star central defender this summer – leading to interest in the likes of Man City defender Aymeric Laporte among others.

Tapsoba, who has been a mainstay under Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso in the Bundesliga, is thought to be another top target.

The 24-year-old is at the centre of interest from Spurs, as backed by reliable sources like renowned transfer journalists like Fabrizio Romano, who says that he is one of the options shortlisted.

Now, The Daily Mail and journalist Simon Jones have a small update on the matter, claiming that Tottenham have “asked about” signing Tapsoba – presumably meaning there has been contact with Leverkusen.

The Burkina Faso international is apparently “eager to join” Spurs and it’s “likely a deal will happen” once an official approach is made.

It’s further added that Tottenham are long-term admirers of Tapsoba as Levy and co commence the hunt for fresh defensive options.

Who is Edmond Tapsoba?

The colossal defender featured over more league minutes than any other Leverkusen outfielder last season, with goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky coming as the only player to be selected more (WhoScored).

Tapsoba appears to be a crucial player for Alonso, and defensively, he is rock solid – with both him and Jonathan Tah making more clearances per 90 than any other Leverkusen player (WhoScored).

Presenter and pundit Jack Collins, writing on Twitter, has seriously endorsed the African in past seasons – branding him “absolutely sensational” for his performances all the way back in 2020.

It’s clear Tapsoba has starred at Leverkusen for quite some time, and this summer may well be the one where he finally gets his big money move, if Spurs do make that official approach.

Chelsea are set to “discuss internally” the possibility of a deal to sign Celta Vigo midfielder Gabri Veiga, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Is Gabri Veiga leaving Celta Vigo?

The Spaniard has become a regular feature of Rafael Benitez’s new side since graduating from their academy last summer as he clocked up 55 senior appearances during his debut season. Having impressed on the big stage, his performances have alerted Mauricio Pochettino in the Premier League.

The La Liga starlet emerged as his side’s second best-performing offensive player and the third overall with a WhoScored match rating of 6.82 last term, and despite his contract still having another three years to run, it does have a €40m (£34m) release clause included.

Earlier in June, Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg claimed that the 21-year-old is “ready for the next step” and “will leave” his boyhood club this window, where he name-checked the Blues as one of several suitors to have held initial “talks”, and the board must have liked what they discovered as they are now weighing up an official approach.

Are Chelsea signing Veiga?

Taking to Twitter, Romano confirmed that Chelsea have indeed been in discussions for Veiga and are set to hold in-house conversations as to whether they want to make a move for him. He wrote:

“Liverpool are informed on Gabri Veiga but they have submitted NO bid — and it’s not something imminent, again. Veiga remains in Chelsea list, they had direct contacts and will discuss internally [and] think about it.”

Should Todd Boehly go for Veiga?

Chelsea are reportedly set to submit a second bid for Brighton and Hove Albion’s Moises Caicedo, and whilst he’s naturally a defensive midfielder, he's also played in central midfield several times. With Veiga being available for just £34m, the Blues could totally transform their central ranks for years to come with a double swoop this summer.

The Spain U21s international is stronger in the offensive aspect of his game having registered 15 goal contributions (11 goals and four assists) in 36 La Liga outings last season which saw him hailed “dangerous” by journalist Zach Lowy, and he’s even a threat when the ball doesn’t hit the back of the net.

Veiga ranked in the 98th percentile for number of shots by midfielders, 62 to be precise, which was the second-highest total throughout his squad, as per FBRef.

With his versatility to operate in five different roles across the pitch, he would be a hugely exciting recruit for Todd Boehly and Pochettino.