Romelu Lukaku, Alex Sandro, Tiemoue Bakayoko: Three players Chelsea need to sign this summer transfer window

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  • Chelsea are expected to make several major signings this summer to manage the extra burden of Champions League football next season.

    The Premier League champions are estimated to have £200 million available as Antonio Conte sets out to bolster his squad ahead of their title defence.

    With star attackers such as Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez linked to the club, a lot will depend on the imminent departure of Diego Costa before any further decisions are made on who to sign up front.

    Which players would you like to see sign for Chelsea this transfer window?

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    TIEMOUE BAKAYOKO

    One of the hottest properties in Europe at the moment, Tiemoue Bakayoko is reportedly close to agreeing a move to Chelsea.

    The promising 22-year-old, who has also attracted interest from Manchester United, was instrumental in Monaco’s Ligue 1 title triumph, making 31 appearances.

    A powerful ball winner, the Frenchman is believed to be enjoying life in the south of France but is drawn by the prospect of playing in the Premier League under Conte.

    With Chelsea in need of extra strength ahead of their Champions League exploits next season, the talismanic defensive midfielder is exactly what the Blues need.

    With questions marks over the future over Nemanja Matic, Bakayoko’s physical strength and defensive efforts would combine effectively with N’Golo Kante’s expansive passing, attacking movement and overall workrate.

    Should Bakayoko sign for the champions, it looks set to be the first of a significant spending spree for Conte this summer, which is also likely to see Costa leave Stamford Bridge.

    COST: £42 MILLION

    ROMELU LUKAKU

    Lukaku is a wanted man this transfer window and with Manchester United also in the hunt for his services, the Belgian attacker is reportedly set to put pen to paper on a long-term deal in west London should Costa depart.

    The 24-year-old feels he has unfinished business at the club after being sold to Everton in 2013, and with 25 league goals this term, he would pose a serious attacking threat for Conte’s men.

    With goal returns of 20, 25 and 26 over the past three seasons, Conte will require the scoring qualities of a player like Lukaku as the Blues cope with the dual demands of a league title defence and Champions League football next season.

    Jose Mourinho’s United have also been strongly linked with Lukaku, but if Costa exits the club, then it is certain the ace marksmen will spearhead Conte’s 3-4-3 system in August.

    COST: £70 MILLION

    ALEX SANDRO

    The Brazil international has emerged as a key target for Chelsea as they look to create competition for Marcos Alonso at left wing-back.

    Reports claim an initial £52 million bid was rejected earlier this week, meaning Chelsea would need to fork out in excess of £55 million – a club transfer record – if they are to land the elusive defender.

    With Alonso a towering presence in the Blues league title triumph, the quoted price for Sandro is quite steep for a player who isn’t guaranteed a starting place.

    The 26-year-old, who has three years left on his current deal at Juventus, is considered a vital cog in Massimiliano Allegri’s side.

    He was impressive during Juve’s treble winning campaign, scoring three goals and providing five assists in 43 appearances.

    It would make sense for Conte to draft in a defender for a cheaper cost, but with the ludicrous price of some players in this window so far, anything seems possible.

    COST: £55 MILLION

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