Rumor repeats: Zouma transfer, Bakayoko discount, Higuaín unwanted

The Chelsea rumor mill is running a bit lean these days, thanks in part to the uncertain future we’re facing in terms of the FIFA transfer ban, which remains in place for the summer still. There’s a chance it will be suspended, but for now, we’re at the mercy of the speed of FIFA’s bureaucracy.

Until then, the rumors are re-running a few recent hits, namely that Everton want Kurt Zouma next season, Juventus don’t want Higuaín next season, and Chelsea aren’t willing to give a discount on Bakayoko.

The former is from the Times, matching recent reports from the Liverpool Echo, not to mention words to that effect from Everton manager Marcos Silva over the past few months. Chelsea’s transfer ban could reduce their chances of keeping the big defender however.

Slightly less wanted than Zouma is Gonzalo Higuaín, whom Juventus don’t want back and Chelsea can’t (and certainly shouldn’t) keep. He may yet end up at AS Roma, though initial explorations for such a deal have not been very fruitful, with local newspapers reporting that Juventus have rejected a swap for fellow veteran striker Edin Dzeko. They would however settle for much worse deals for Roma including either Kostas Manolas or the wonderful and very young Nicolò Zaniolo.

Lastly, there is the umpteenth confirmation that Chelsea will not give AC Milan a discount on Bakayoko, and will look to collect the full buyout price of around €35-38m.

The Rossoneri have also been re-linked with Antonio Conte, alongside in-city rivals Inter, who had been one of the leading names in the José Mourinho rumors as well.

And now you know.