French Ligue 1 club Olympique Lyon have stepped-up their “pursuit” of Everton and West Ham United target Bertrand Traore, and are enthusiastic in tying up a deal for the Chelsea youngster this week. Elsewhere, former Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers midfielder Steven N'Zonzi has his heart set on a possible move to Serie A giants Juventus this summer transfer window despite continued growing interest from English Premier League reigning champions Chelsea FC.
Lyon keen on Bertrand Troare
Olympique Lyon are now in advanced negotiations with Chelsea regarding a move for the Burkinabé forward, who netted a total of nine goals in twenty-two league appearance on loan at Dutch side Ajax Amsterdam last season.
Everton and West Ham United were both hopefuls of keeping the 21-year-old in England for the time-being but now it apparently seems that his next destination will be France. Lyon and Chelsea are now close to finalizing the transfer agreement, with little details currently being ironed-out by the both parties. The Ligue 1 giants believe they could agree on personal terms with the youngster this weekend ahead of a deal once the transfer market officially starts.
N'Zonzi eyes move to Juve
Steven N'Zonzi has recently “emerged” as a prime target for Juventus, who're hoping to add more “steals” to their squad this summer. Juventus former head coach Antonio Conte, who's the present Chelsea manager, looked keen to battle his former team for the French midfielder signature when the transfer window officially opens on July 1.
Now the Serie A champions must reach to an agreement with Sevilla CF regarding a transfer fee. The Frenchman has a €39.9m buyout clause in his current contract while Juventus have already bid around €29.6m. It has been clearly suggested that both Sevilla CF and Juventus will shake hands at around €35m, especially now the Frenchman wants to leave Seville this summer.
Man United, Bayern battles for Samedo's signature
Nelson Samedo is currently eyeing a move away from Lisbon Benfica this summer and it is understood that a number of top European club sides are monitoring the 23-year-old defender. Bayern Munich and Manchester United are said to be interested, while La Liga giants Barcelona were also leading the race for Samedo's signature, but unwilling in paying the fullback's substantial buyout clause.
Lisbon Benfica isn't keen in parting ways with their “star asset” this summer and are expected to hold out until a suitor reaches the €57m mark.
Meanwhile, Manchester United remain linked with the 23-year-old defender and might now launch a formal offer following Barca's unwillingness to pay over the “odds” for the highly rated fullback. United has already completed an agreement for his former teammate Victor Lindelof and may now decide to-go-back for Nelson Samedo.