Chelsea Transfer News: Antoine Griezmann Latest, Baba Rahman Rumours
Chelsea will have to turn their attention away from Antoine Griezmann, after the Atletico Madrid star signed a new deal to extend his stay at the Vicente Calderon.
According to Uche Amako of the Express, who cites AS, the Frenchman's contract with the Spanish club now runs until 2019.
The Frenchman was in outstanding form last season, scoring 25 goals and contributing six assists in all competitions.
As WhoScored.com notes, Griezmann's goalscoring exploits in La Liga put him in exceptional company:
Per Amako's report, Chelsea are potentially light up front due to Diego Costa's questionable fitness and Radamel Falcao representing a gamble after scoring just four times for Manchester United last year.
However, the 24-year-old will now stay in Madrid for the forseeable future.
According to the Mirror's John Cross, manager Jose Mourinho is apparently content with Chelsea's forward options. He said: "We have three top strikers. If one is injured we have two. No concerns, no protections. It’s a position where we’re very strong."
However, Mourinho would undoubtedly be remiss to let a quality forward slip through his fingers should the opportunity to sign one arise.
Unfortunately for the Blues, it won't be Griezmann—this summer at least.
Chelsea Close in on Baba Rahman
According to Jamie Sanderson of Metro, via Dennis Amedovski of Bild, "Chelsea are set to announce the transfer of Augsburg’s Abdul Baba Rahman imminently."
The Blues are in need of a left-back, as they only boast Cesar Azpilicueta as a senior option in that position.
Mourinho is well aware of the need. Per Sky Sports, he said: "We need a left-back, the board knows that and my feeling is that we are going to have one."
The youngster has understandably caught Chelsea's eye after an exceptional season with Augsburg.
As WhoScored.com demonstrates, Rahman's defensive attributes are impressive, particularly for a 21-year-old:
As the video below shows, Rahman is comfortable in possession and boasts excellent delivery in the final third.
Bleacher Report's own Clark Whitney is impressed with the Ghanaian:
Though Azpilicueta will surely remain Mourinho's first choice left-back, Rahman will likely enjoy plenty of opportunities to showcase his talents, as Chelsea face lengthy runs in the cup competitions and Europe.
At just 21, Rahman represents an outstanding long-term acquisition for the Blues and could become a Premier League star in the future.
