Meanwhile, manager Thomas Tuchel has defended striker Romelu Lukaku after his abysmal showing against Crystal Palace. Elsewhere, the Blues are negotiating with Real Madrid to facilitate Eden Hazard’s return.

On that note, here’s a look at the key Chelsea transfer stories as on 22nd February:

Thomas Tuchel defends Romelu Lukaku

Thomas Tuchel is determined to help Romelu Lukaku get over his recent struggles. The Belgian made news when he managed a league-low seven touches against Crystal Palace this weekend.

The 28-year-old has blown hot and cold since joining Chelsea last summer, having struck only ten times in nearly 30 games across competitions. Lukaku previously faced Tuchel’s ire for a controversial interview. However, the German has chosen to defend Lukaku this time.

Speaking to the press, Tuchel said that it is ’normal’ for strikers to struggle against good defensive sides.

The Chelsea manager believes the absence of Reece James and Ben Chilwell has hurt Lukaku.

Lukaku will hope for a better outing against Lille on Tuesday.

Eden Hazard return on the cards

Chelsea are negotiating with Real Madrid to take Eden Hazard on loan, according to Caught Offside via Ramon Alvarez de Mon.

The Belgian is part of folklore at Stamford Bridge, and is adored by fans. With his much-publicised move to the Santiago Bernabeu failing to work, Los Blancos are willing to consider his departure.

Hazard has bagged only six goals and ten assists in 65 games across competitions. That’s a far cry from his numbers at Stamford Bridge, where he scored 100 times and assisted on 92 occasions in over 350 appearances.

The Blues want to take advantage of Hazard’s struggles at the Santiago Bernabeu, and bring their prodigal son home. Despite Hazard’s struggles in Spain, there’s a perception that he could improve Chelsea’s attack.

Chelsea interested in Marco Verratti

Chelsea are interested in Marco Verratti, according to The Hard Tackle via Fichajes.

Thomas Tuchel is eager to improve his midfield this summer. The German brought in Saul Niguez on loan last summer, but the move has proved to be a disaster thus far. The Spaniard is likely to return to Atletico Madrid in the summer, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Ross Barkley are also facing uncertain futures at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues are planning to address the situation by roping in Verratti. He would be an instant upgrade on the midfield options currently at Tuchel’s disposal. The Italian has spent almost a decade at PSG, and might be open to a new challenge. The 29-year-old is likely to cost €50-60 million, though.

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