Chelsea 'can sign Gonzalo Higuain, Mateo Kovacic despite transfer ban'

Chelsea are reportedly confident that they can sign Gonzalo Higuain and Mateo Kovacic on permanent deals this summer, despite their two-window transfer ban.

The Blues have been blocked from adding players to their squad as a result of the FIFA-imposed suspension, which they are attempting to overturn at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

However, Goal.com suggests that Chelsea believe they can keep hold of Juventus striker Higuain and Real Madrid midfielder Kovacic without contravening their embargo.

Maurizio Sarri hopes to retain both players, the report claims, and they are both open to staying on at Stamford Bridge beyond the summer.

Talks are rumoured to be underway with Madrid for Kovacic, while a sum has already been agreed with Juve for Higuain as part of the initial loan deal.