Chelsea manager Antonio Conte bemoans 'crazy' transfer market amid Romelu Lukaku rumours

New Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has admitted the club are actively trying to sign players - but accepts the transfer market is "crazy". The Blues have been linked with a big-money bid for Everton's Romelu Lukaku and Conte admitted Chelsea are keen to recruit more players before the window closes.

The Italian said the club must remain patient if they are to find the "right solutions". However, Conte also insisted he is happy with the players already at his disposal. "We have a plan. We know this transfer market is very crazy," the manager reflected during a pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea's game against West Ham United, according to the BBC.

"We must be patient to find the right solutions for the team, to improve this squad. I'm very happy to work with these players. They show great commitment every day."

On the other hand, Conte did confirm that Bertrand Traore will go on loan to Ajax this season. He explained that playing regularly will help the 20-year-old forward's development. "He's a good player and we prefer he plays every game this season," Conte said.

Meanwhile, the Chelsea boss - who has already signed Michy Batshuayi and N'Golo Kante this summer - confessed he expects the Premier League to provide stiff competition this season. "It's a very tough league. There are many great clubs who can fight to win the title," said Conte, who agreed to join Chelsea earlier this year. "I'm excited and so are the players. We're in a good situation."

He did, however, admit to feeling slightly apprehensive about managing outside Serie A for the first time in his career. Asked if he is as relaxed as he appears, the Chelsea boss replied: "I'm not! It's the first time I have managed a new team in a new league in a new country."