Finally, Sky Sports has confirmed a huge expansion of its Premier League coverage for the 2017/18 season. As part of the deal, at least 215 matches will continue to be shown exclusively live by the network, an increase from 128 games last campaign. This isn’t just a victory for soccer—it’s an expansion that ensures 80 percent of all televised Premier League games now air on Sky Sports. Its purpose is to improve consumer experience and provide fans with better access to the teams they love.
As Chelsea look ahead to their new season, the club is still in the process of evaluating its current squad and possible new additions to the club. Raheem Sterling, on loan from Manchester City, endured a miserable time at the Emirates last term. He is not the only player on loan from Chelsea currently on the roster – notably, Joao Felix, Ben Chilwell, Renato Veiga and Axel Disasi are featured. The new management were clearly eager to overhaul the squad and further cash in on emerging opportunities in the transfer market.
Xavi Simons is still the beating heart of Chelsea’s summer interest. The RB Leipzig midfielder has quickly established himself as the hottest commodity this window. He could choose to delay his judgment until further into the transfer window. Despite only having two years remaining on his current deal, his future is far from certain. Chelsea has been linked with Ajax defender Hato, who flashed his talents as a left-sided defender throughout last season.
Besides the obvious incoming potential players, Chelsea’s transfer strategy is hugely relying on offloading current squad players. Christopher Nkunku was instrumental in Chelsea’s victory at the Club World Cup. At the same time, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall recorded the highest total of minutes played in the UEFA Conference League. Fulham has expressed interest in acquiring Dewsbury-Hall, which may affect Chelsea’s decision-making regarding their squad depth.
Chukwuemeka spent the second half of last season on loan with Borussia Dortmund. With expected returnee Taisun Phommachanh having a healthy offseason, he’ll come back with the experience that battle will provide. Chelsea has other targets in mind as they navigate the complexities of the transfer market, balancing new acquisitions with the necessity of moving players out.
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