Chelsea plot £20m first summer transfer as Crystal Palace target set for medical

There are questions marks over the future of several Manchester United players, despite their surprise FA Cup Final win over local rivals Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.

It would be safe to say it was the reigning Premier League champions who were strong favourites to complete a double-double under the Wembley arch - but an inspired performance from the Red Devils ensured they lifted the cup for the first time since 2016. Goals from young duo Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho ensured a second-half strike from Jeremy Doku could do little to prevent Erik ten Hag securing the second major honour of his reign at Old Trafford.

There remains some doubt over whether the former Ajax manager will remain in charge next season - and one of his signings is also unsure whether he will be handed a chance to extend his time with the 13-time Premier League champions. Sofyan Amrabat joined the Red Devils on a season-long loan from Serie A club Fiorentina last summer and he revealed he is still to hold talks over whether that could become a permanent move.

Amrabat was asked about his future in an interview with Ziggo Sport, as he replied: "Do I already know what I’m going to do next year? No. We are going to talk. Staying is certainly an option. Look, I think it has been a very difficult season. For Manchester United it needs to be much better, and also for me personally."

The 3AM Verdict: Amrabat has shown signs of serious improvement in recent weeks - but it should be said the vast majority of his loan spell at Manchester United has been underwhelming. There are some difficult decisions to be taken by the Old Trafford hierarchy this summer - but not converting his loan switch into a permanent move seems to be more straightforward.

Chelsea set for shock £20m Burnley swoop

Not having a manager is doing little to stop Chelsea pressing on with their attempts to strengthen their squad.

There was some surprise when the Blues parted company with Mauricio Pochettino last week after he had guided them to a Europa League place. Of course, Manchester United’s FA Cup Final means they will take their place in UEFA’s secondary club cup competition and leave Chelsea to prepare for a tilt at the Europa Conference League - but it was safe to say there seemed to be some momentum building at Stamford Bridge.

Despite their thoughts being on Pochettino’s successor, Chelsea are still pressing ahead with their transfer plans according to The Sun and that is set to lead to a £20m offer for Burnley and England Under-21 goalkeeper James Trafford. The former Manchester City stopper joined the Clarets last season but struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League. That has not put off Chelsea, and the Daily Mail claim they’re ahead of Newcastle United in the race to sign Trafford.

The 3AM Verdict: It is difficult to judge Trafford on what has been a challenging season at Burnley. Before his move to Turf Moor, the youngster was showing some very promising signs and he remains a firm favourite within the England setup. A move, at the right price, could be a shrewd long-term move for any willing suitor.

Palace progress sparks Guehi speculation

Crystal Palace are reportedly closing in on the signing of Real Betis defender Chadi Riad - and there is speculation that could lead to the sale of Eagles defender Marc Guehi.

The England international was one of the highlights of Palace’s impressive form during the latter months of last season and that has brought him to the attention of several clubs after the likes of Newcastle United and Manchester United were linked with a big money move for his services. The news Riad is set to undergo a medical on Monday will do little to quell any speculation over Guehi’s future.

Palace are said to have agreed a £12.7m deal for the defender and a further £1.7m could be handed over in add-ons if certain targets within the agreement are met. However, 50 percent of the profit made by Betis will go to La Liga rivals Barcelona after the centre-back came through their famed La Masia academy.

The 3AM Verdict: Palace have made some very shrewd signings in recent seasons after the likes of Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Adam Wharton have all impressed after moving to Selhurst Park. Guehi has made just as much progress as anyone and there is no surprise that several clubs are keen on making a move for the England man.