Snak

According to Watford Observer journalist Andrew French, negotiations to secure Udinese defender Abankwah on a permanent basis and another loan deal for Chelsea left-back Wiley, whilst not in a position to be confirmed as done deals just yet, are ongoing, and that there is a "very strong chance" of both getting over the line sooner rather than later.

Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders is reportedly attracting widespread interest ahead of the summer transfer window.

Last summer, the Blues announced that they had acquired the signature of the young Belgian before allowing him to spend the campaign on loan at Genk, the club that they were purchasing him from.

That decision proved to be the best for all concerned, Penders having since accumulated 25 appearances for Genk in all competitions during 2024-25.

However, after that tournament has concluded, it needs to be determined whether Penders will be promoted to Enzo Maresca´s first-team squad or go out on loan.

That decision will realistically be dictated by where his most regular game time will come, and Genk have already signalled their desire to extend his loan by another season.

Strasbourg - who are also owned by BlueCo - are also deemed to be a potential destination, while PSV Eindhoven are allegedly monitoring the situation.

Given Penders´s record of eight clean sheets and conceding just 22 goals in 25 matches, it is plausible to expect more clubs to enter the race in due course.

Chelsea is pleased to confirm Max Merrick has signed a new three-year contract.

The goalkeeper joined the Blues as an Under-13 from grassroots football after impressing on trial.

He made his Under-18s debut during the 2022/23 season and was on the men’s first team bench for an FA Cup game against Aston Villa the following year.

This season, Merrick established himself as the regular goalkeeper for our Under-21 side, and was on the bench for the first team again for the UEFA Conference League matches against Noah and Astana.

He made his England Under-20 debut in October, shortly before his 19th birthday. Merrick then spent the second half of the campaign on loan at Hampton & Richmond, playing 19 games and gaining valuable experience in the senior game. Congratulations, Max!

🚨💙 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Christopher Nkunku will LEAVE Chelsea FOR SURE this summer, decision made. 👋🏻