All of the latest Chelsea news and views all in one place including the latest transfer rumours from Stamford Bridge and developments surrounding the Blues’ takeover
Hello everyone, and welcome to football.london ‘s live Chelsea blog on Wednesday.
It is another Champions League night at Stamford Bridge and it is sure to be a special one as Real Madrid travel to west London for the quarter-final first leg. Chelsea got the better of Los Blancos last season but they will need to be at their very best to do so again.
Elsewhere, speculation remains rife regarding transfers and takeover and we will have news for you throughout the day, including updates on the Ricketts family bid and Robert Lewandowski’s future.
Keep the blog locked throughout the day so that you don’t miss a single update from Stamford Bridge.
Half-time at Stamford Bridge
It’s half-time at the Bridge and Chelsea are 2-1 down after a Karim Benzema brace before Kai Havertz pulled a goal back.
You can follow the second half live with our dedicated live blog here.
Ten Hag appointment
Chelsea could be impacted by reports that Manchester United are ready to appoint Ajax manager Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.
It could represent a boost for the Blues, with manager Thomas Tuchel linked to the vacant role.
Lukaku transfer
Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku has been linked with a move back to Inter Milan this summer, following his struggles since making the return to Stamford Bridge.
And now according to Gazzetta dello Sport, via Football Italia, the Inter hierarchy are more open to making the switch for the Belgian again.
Chelsea lineup
Thomas Tuchel has named his Chelsea side ahead of the quarter-final clash with Real Madrid tonight.
The Blues will be hoping to repeat last season’s semi-final result to book a place in the final four.
Early Real Madrid team news
Real Madrid have dropped their full starting XI hours ahead of kick-off, potentially giving the Blues an advantage going into the game.
Karim Benzema returns from injury whilst former Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois starts in goal. Ex-winger Eden Hazard is not in the squad but ex-Spurs winger Gareth Bale is on the bench.
Follow the game LIVE
We’re not far away from Chelsea’s crunch match with Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals and if you can’t watch the game then we have you covered.
Follow our dedicated matchday blog here for the latest previews, match action and reaction as it happens.
Hazard update
Real Madrid are set to listen to offers for former Chelsea winger Eden Hazard, according to AS.
The Blues have been linked with a return for the Belgian, who has struggled in the Spanish capital since making the switch.
Eder Militao audition
Chelsea have the chance to see reported transfer target Eder Militao play up close and live when they face Real Madrid later this evening.
It could prove an interesting scouting mission, potentially forcing a choice from Antonio Rudiger over his future.
