Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Chelsea transfer news: Blues turn to CHAMPIONSHIP after worrying Roman Abramovich update
CHELSEA will turn their attention to the Championship as they look to strengthen their squad after Roman Abramovich's cutbacks.
It has emerged that the Chelsea owner will only give the new manager no more than £60million this summer to improve a team which finished outside the top four.
While Liverpool have already splashed the cash and Manchester United are likely to follow suit, Chelsea won't be able to bring in big-money additions.
With expectations seemingly lowered, Chelsea have identified Middlesbrough's flying winger Adama Traore as a possible addition.
Traore, 22, showed his potential last season, sparking interest here and abroad. Newcastle and West Ham are also keen.
Traore has an £18million release clause in his contract with former club Aston Villa set to get a cut of any fee.
Transfer Window pundit Duncan Castles said: "One player Chelsea have taken an interest in is Adama Traore, who PSG are looking at as well. That tells you where Chelsea are at.
"They see Adama Traore as a potential signing if they have to sell Willian or Eden Hazard. He's certainly not an upgrade on either of those players.
"He would need a lot of development.
"He's attracted attention from a lot of Premier League clubs, principally because he has a release clause in his contract which because Boro didn't get promoted means he can move for £18m."
Chelsea have been long term admirers after Traore caused trouble for the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City in the Premier League.
While Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez too is a fan, having shown an interest last summer and in January following Boro’s relegation to the Championship.