Ownership debacle affected Chelsea pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt

Transfer News: Chelsea ownership debacle has affected their pursuit of Juventus star Matthijs de Ligt

According to transfer news on Calciomercato, Chelsea remained ‘standby’ in the race to sign Matthijs de Ligt because of the sanctions and ownership issues that have been affecting the club on and off the pitch since March.   

Matthijs de Ligt has proven to be a solid central defender during his tenure at Juventus. After becoming a regular under Massimiliano Allegri, he has played 41 matches across all competitions. Still only 22-year-old, the Dutchman has a lot to offer and could become one of the top centre-backs in the world in the coming years.

Chelsea are at risk of losing some of the crucial defenders of the team including Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and César Azpilicueta. Reinforcements are needed to manage the defensive voids and the Blues seem to be on the right path considering their transfer approach. 

Despite being linked with De Ligt for a long period, Chelsea haven’t made any genuine transfer approach regarding his signature. Now it is believed that the sanctions and ownership problem at the West London club obliged them to remain on ‘standby’. 

Juventus are already trying to tie the Dutchman down to a new contract which would have a significantly lower release clause. However, it is believed that the new contract wouldn’t ensure his stay at the club. 

Should Chelsea sign De Ligt?

After leading the 2018/19 Ajax side to the Champions League semi-final De Ligt became the youngest player to do so in history. The Dutchman seems to be passionate about defending and has shown commitment to his job at Juventus. 

Chelsea are already in hot waters due to the departure of Antonio Rudiger. If two to three more players join him in taking the exit road then there would be carnage at the club and reinforcements would be needed on priority.

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Being a top-tier English club in the most popular sport across the entire world, Chelsea shouldn’t let the player departures determine the overall outcome of the next season. They would be wise to sign a player like de Ligt who can have an instant impact upon arrival. 

Chelsea’s ownership issue seems to be close to an end as Todd Bohely is set to take ownership of the club very soon. His arrival would also diminish the sanctions and the Blues would be able to talk with players and agents more freely.