Chelsea plot summer move for Newcastle captain Lascelles
Chelsea are planning to launch a summer bid to sign Jamaal Lascelles from Newcastle United this summer.
The London Evening Standard reports that the club wants to sign the player in an attempt to both increase the number of homegrown players in the squad and lower the average age.
Lascelles has impressed at Newcastle this season, showing leadership qualities beyond his age.
The Blues have monitored Lascelles since his time at Nottingham Forest and are considering a move with concerns over the long-term futures of both Gary Cahill and David Luiz.
A sticking point for Chelsea could be the Englishman’s desire to work under Rafa Benitez.
The former Chelsea interim boss, now in charge at St James’ Park made the defender captain and Lascelles is a huge fan of the Spaniard’s management methods.
Chelsea will be boosted by the doubts of Benitez’s long-term future at Newcastle and should he leave in the summer, the Blues could pounce to secure his signature.