Chelsea pair may depart as Keane doubts De Zerbi Pool credentials

3AM’s round-up of the latest football rumours includes updates concerning Chelsea, Liverpool and Leeds United

Chelsea could be willing to authorise the sale of two key players as they continue to battle with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations. After a lavish spending spree saw the likes of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Christopher Nkunku move to Stamford Bridge, the Blues are said to be close to their PSR limits as the summer window looms.

The Times have reported they are considering the sale of England duo Conor Gallagher and Reece James to give them some breathing space and allow Mauricio Pochettino to add to his squad.

The 3AM Verdict: There has always been a feeling Gallagher is viewed as dispensable by the Blues’ hierarchy, while it would be a surprise to see any club handing over substantial funds for James given his recent injury record.

Their focus may well be on an immediate return to the Premier League but Leeds United are already planning their summer transfer spending.

The Belfast Telegraph have claimed they are keen on a move for Sunderland defender Trai Hume after he continued to impress with their Championship rivals.

However, the same report also names Napoli, Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Napoli as potential suitors alongside Leeds.

The 3AM Verdict: Hume has been a real success story at Sunderland. After gaining international experience with Northern Ireland, he now looks ready to step into life at a higher level of club football.

Roy Keane told Sky Sports that Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi still has plenty to prove before he should be under consideration to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.

The Italian’s future was a hot topic in the build-up after he refused to confirm he was open to extending his stay with the Seagulls.

The 3AM Verdict: Keane makes a valid point when it comes to De Zerbi’s record of landing major silverware. Should a manager with a proven record become available, it would be no surprise to see De Zerbi snubbed.

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