Calciomercato.com

Chelsea, Liverpool set to miss out on three targets

Chelsea, Liverpool set to miss out on three targets

  • Matthew Klimberg
Much has been written and reported on Antonio Conte’s apparent unhappiness with Chelsea’s transfer strategy. After missing out on Romelu Lukaku, Ross Barkley, and Fernando Llorente the Italian tactician was reportedly mulling a shock exit from Stamford Bridge, but has since stayed on. However, it appears he, as well as Liverpool, are possibly going to miss out on two, if not three, more targets this January.

Lazio defender Stefan de Vrij is reportedly set to agree to a new contract to remain in the San Siro, while Fauzi Ghoulam is close to a renewal with Napoli. While both players are on the final year of their contracts, they remain close on economic terms, but reportedly must come to agreements on release clauses. Additionally, German striker Leon Goretzka appears likely to be heading to Bayern Munich once his contract expires in June.

Speaking to Mediaset Premium, sporting director Igli Tare said, “I am optimistic on De Vrij's renewal, because there is good will on both sides.” He continued, “We will soon meet his agents and I think we will eventually find an agreement. As long as I cannot see it in black and white, though, I will remain vigilant." As long as I cannot see it in black and white, though, I will remain vigilant." The Dutch defender has scored twice in six matches for Lazio this season.

Despite assertions to the contrary from his agent, Mario Giuffredi, Ghoulam appears set to renew his deal at Stadio San Paulo. According to Rai Sport, the Algerian left-back has agreed to a €2.5 million contract extension, with a reported buyout of €40 million. Recently though, Giuffredi said Ghoulam, “Would’ve renewed already if he wanted to stay.”

It’s unclear how Conte and Jurgen Kloop – whose Liverpool is in dire need of defenders – will react to missing out on these potential transfer targets. However, deals have not been agreed upon yet, and changes are possible.