Edouard Mendy on his way to Chelsea
According to Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol (h/t Express), Rennes are holding up the transfer of Edouard Mendy to Chelsea.
The 28-year-old is expected to compete with Kepa Arrizabalaga for the starting position at Stamford Bridge.
There are two major issues holding up the deal. While the first is the structure itself, the second is that Rennes want to take Fikayo Tomori on loan.
According to the report, the Blues are still in talks with the Ligue 1 side for Mendy.
Rennes have accepted Chelsea’s bid worth £27.5m, with the player also agreeing to personal terms with the club.
“There are disagreements over the valuation of the player, the structure of the deal and also Rennes would like to have a Chelsea player on loan as part of the deal.”
Despite the complication, there is nothing to fear. Solhekol believes it will a matter of when and nopt if the transfer is completed.
“There is every expectation that he is going to become a Chelsea player.”
Once the deal is completed, it will be Chelsea’s sixth major first-team signing this window. The Blues have acted decisively to strengthen their side before the 2020/21 campaign gathers steam.
Adding the Senegalese strengthens what was a weak spot in our squad last season. Meanwhile, Kepa has reacted positively to the potential signing and is ready to fight for his spot.
If all goes well, the competition should help bring the best out them both.
Having signed Thiago Silva, Fikayo Tomori is the fifth choice centre-back at the club. With his chances set to be at a premium, he will do well to leave on loan and continue his development.
While a loan to the Premier League could be the best option, Tomori has more chances of gaining game time at Rennes. Moreover, the French side can also offer him Champions League experience.
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