Chelsea in talks with multiple candidates after Freund blow

Chelsea are negotiating with multiple candidates after failing to land RB Salzburg sporting director Christoph Freund.

The Blues had agreed personal terms with the 45-year-old on Sunday, but there was a surprise U-turn on the decision thereafter.

Salzburg were determined to keep hold of the Austrian transfer guru, and they eventually managed to convince Freund to stay.

The news has come as a big blow for the west London giants, but Fabrizio Romano cites that many alternatives are being pursued.

While the names are unknown, Romano claims that the Blues are working secretly to finalise a sporting director as soon as possible.

Chelsea owner Todd Boehly was in charge of transfers this summer, and there is a feeling that he overpaid for some of the signings.

Hence, he is keen on employing a sporting director immediately such that he can work closely with manager Graham Potter on targets.

Chelsea plan to invest around £260m in the next two transfer windows.