These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.

Blues linked with Berardi

The Daily Mail has reported that Chelsea have enquired about Italian forward Domenico Berardi.

The 26-year-old was very impressive in the Azzurri’s Euro 2020 triumph, picking up two assists in the group stages for Roberto Mancini’s men.

Berardi has spent his entire club career at Serie A team Sassuolo, making his debut in 2012. He currently has two years left on his contract. According to Italian site Sportitalia, Thomas Tuchel will be looking to add more attacking threats to his strong squad and the Italian could be one of the options.

‘The Blues have made enquiries into Berardi’s availability, while Borussia Dortmund and West Ham are also tracking the Italy star,’ the report states.

Berardi was very influential for Sassuolo last season, scoring 17 goals and picking up eight assists in Serie A.

Burley wants Chelsea to sign Haaland

Craig Burley believes the Blues will be favourites for the Premier League if they sign Erling Haaland.

Speaking on ESPN, the former Chelsea midfielder also praised Thomas Tuchel for the job he has done since his arrival.

‘He has shown what a good manager he is,’ Burley said. ‘The big question was, what could he do? He answered that.’

The Scot believes if the Blues go all out for Norwegian striker Haaland they can challenge for the title. The 21-year-old remains one of the most sought-after players in Europe with Real Madrid and Manchester City also eyeing the star.

‘Give him the money to get him the hottest property in world football,’ he added. ‘If he does, they are up there with Manchester City as the favourites.

‘That’s how much of a difference Haaland would make.’

Zola backs Jorginho for Ballon d’Or

Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola believes Blues midfielder Jorginho deserves to win the Ballon d’Or this year.

Speaking in a report that was repeated in the Daily Mail, the former Chelsea forward thinks his fellow Italian has done more to clinch the award than Robert Lewandowksi and Lionel Messi.

'Should they give it to Jorginho?’ Zola said. ‘It would be deserved. He gives concrete balance and pace to his teams.

‘I was lucky to coach him at Chelsea and I know what he does on the pitch.’

Jorginho has had a fantastic year after winning European trophies for both club and country. If he does clinch the individual award, he’ll be the second player to win it not named Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi since 2008, after Luka Modric’s win in 2018.

‘It would be deserved because not only were his performances at a high level, but the teams he played for have been outstanding.

‘That must be taken into account.’