Chelsea play down Caicedo sale talk, eye last-16 draw
Club sources dismiss claims they must sell Moises Caicedo or Cole Palmer to meet UEFA rules, insisting no pressure to offload key players. Palmer contracted to 2033 and seen as cornerstone.
Paul Merson tips Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea at the Emirates, while predicting Man City draw 1-1 with Leeds. He notes Arsenal’s unbeaten home league run bar Man United and recent upper hand over Chelsea.
Hasselbaink says owners have moved on from Enzo Maresca and aim to back Liam Rosenior. He notes bright start but lapses, with Chelsea dropping 19 league points from winning positions.
Ex-Chelsea striker Chris Sutton backs Man City to win 3-1 at Leeds despite Farke’s strong night-game record. He recalls Leeds’ 3-2 loss at the Etihad after a 2-2 fightback, and flags Leeds’ defensive frailty.
Marc Guiu has not submitted a transfer request and ‘still loves’ life at Chelsea despite limited minutes under Liam Rosenior. A summer loan is mooted with Joao Pedro and Emanuel Emegha set to lead.
Chelsea, seeded for the last 16, will draw either PSG or Newcastle. PSG are holders with firepower but leaky defence, Newcastle strong in Europe. Verdict says PSG are the tougher tie.
Aston Villa will trial a 50-seat singing section in the lower North Stand for the 4 March match vs Chelsea to boost atmosphere, with future expansion planned amid ongoing stand redevelopment.
Mamadou Sarr, recalled from Strasbourg and fresh from Afcon glory with Senegal, pushes to start at Arsenal after an impressive FA Cup debut and late league cameo, with Wesley Fofana suspended.
Forest’s Elliot Anderson, linked with Chelsea, says he is focused on his football but does not rule out a move. Forest want £100m, with Vitor Pereira insisting he and Gibbs-White remain committed.
