According to Italian journalist Giacomo Iacobellis (h/t Daily Express), Juventus are relying on their pursuit to attract Kalidou Koulibaly in order to replace Chelsea target Matthijs de Ligt.
There is no doubt that Chelsea have to add centre-backs if they want to even compete next year. The Blues are in dire need of replacements after a number of prominent players left the club this summer and possibly more can follow.
In recent weeks, Chelsea have been linked with a variety of centre-backs, with Matthijs de Ligt of Juventus being one of the most prominent targets. The Dutchman, who is considered one of Italy’s top young centre-backs, would not be inexpensive.
However, now it is believed that Juventus might be reluctant to part with De Ligt this summer unless they can replace him with Koulibaly.
But Barcelona are also interested in Koulibaly and if the Catalan club becomes successful in their desire to land the Senegalese, it would be a huge blow to Chelsea’s transfer pursuit.
There are currently just four potential centre-backs for Chelsea to choose from for the upcoming season due to the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. Cesar Azpilicueta, our captain, is one of them who also seems to be interested in leaving Stamford Bridge.
Ageing Thiago Silva and the inexperienced Trevoh Chalobah and Malang Sarr are our other possibilities. We must immediately bring in at least two capable centre-backs who can contribute from the start of the upcoming season.
De Ligt could be the ideal addition to the group. Leading Ajax to a UEFA Champions League semi-final some three years back as their captain, the Dutchman displayed that he has what it takes to lead an elite backline.
If our interest becomes reality, the Serie A defender will be able to man our defensive line for years to come. There isn’t much time left before the campaign gets underway.
If possible, Thomas Tuchel should have these additions before the start of preseason; otherwise, it will be a race against time to integrate them into the squad and the German manager’s system prior to the start of the regular campaign.
Chelsea find themselves in a difficult situation as their skipper, Reece James, continues to recover from a long-standing injury. The…
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has given the green light for French defender Malo Gusto to return following his injury…
The 22-year-old made a top class performance and marked an assist in Chelsea's 3-0 win against West Ham.
Chelsea have been subject to aggressive links with Victor Osimhen over the recently concluded summer transfer window, and the Blues…
Chelsea recently loaned Jadon Sancho on a season long load deal from Manchester United. (with an obligation to buy)
After a disappointing 2023-24 season under Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea wasted no time in parting ways with the Argentine manager. The…