Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: "Antonio Rüdiger… Who is this?!"

The Blues are in the middle of a takeover race, which is getting hotter by the minute, with Todd Boehly, Steve Pagliuca and Sir Martin Broughton in contention for clinching Chelsea from Roman Abramovich through a final deal.

As tensions regarding the club's ownership loom, the news of Antonio Rudiger's departure at the end of the season is still plaguing fans who are struggling to envision a new centre-back. However, reports have stated the potential arrival of a replacement that might bring in the likes of Matthijs De Ligt and Jules Koundé. As per SportsWitness, Chelsea is still in the race to book Villarreal defender Pau Torres this summer.

Top Picks for the Blues 

The Spain international proved his talent at the Europa League last term and was crucial in Villarreal's steady march towards the Champions League semi-final this campaign. His current contract binds him with a €60million release clause, but Chelsea's efforts to sack him might be thwarted by other clubs like Manchester United and Manchester City. In addition, the Blues are said to be targetting Arminia Bielefeld centre-back Amos Pieper as outgoing defenders Antonio Rudiger, and Andreas Christensen prepares to live their final days in Stamford.

The 24-year-old delivered a strong performance in Bundesliga this season, although his current side Arminia is about to be relegated. On the other hand, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has shocked fans by stating that he is unaware of who Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger is. His statement arrives during an exchange with Qatari media group beIN Sports after his side's 4-3 defeat at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night. It is said that the German international is close to making a move to the Bernabeu. 

Carlo Ancelotti's Reaction Stuns the Football Community

"Antonio Rüdiger… Who is this?!".

The reaction from Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed Real Madrid's otherwise visible interest in the German international. Meanwhile, Chelsea is almost in the last stages of signing Sevilla defender Jules Kounde. Since last summer, the 23-year-old has been a top target for the Blues, and Antonio Rudiger's unfortunate departure only increases the chances of Kounde's entry. 

Sources disclose that the player has described his desire for the transfer as 'unwavering.' Another Chelsea target Aurelien Tchouameni is also likely to join the Blues after Manchester City thrashed Real Madrid 4-3 in the Champions League on Tuesday night. The Monaco midfielder might rethink his potential shift to Real Madrid.

Meanwhile, Chelsea has revived their interest in Juventus centre-back Matthijs De Ligt as the summer transfer window approaches. Tuttosport reveals that the Blues are keen on offering a large sum. Furthermore, Todd Boehly, Steve Pagliuca and Sir Martin Broughton are scheduled to make final presentations at Stamford Bridge this week before Roman Abramovich's successor is picked.