Journo: Chelsea could target elite free agent if Raphinha deal falls through

Transfer News: Chelsea eye free agent Paulo Dybala as Raphinha alternative

Speaking in an interview as quoted by The Score – WWIA  (h/t Football. London), @siphillipssport has claimed that Chelsea will eye out-of-contract Juventus forward Paulo Dybala as an alternative if they fail to land Leeds United winger Raphinha.

The Blues have been interested in signing Raphinha for quite some time now but a move for the Brazilian winger seems extremely unlikely with the player supposedly keen on making a move to Spanish giants Barcelona and Chelsea might have to look elsewhere.

A new name that has been thrown in the ring is that of Juventus forward Paulo Dybala who is set to leave Juventus on a free transfer this summer after failing to renew his contract. A very different player to Raphinha, it is interesting that Chelsea are interested in Dybala.

One of the most talented players in Serie A for many years now and he has offered excellent creativity on the ball. However, he is not a natural winger like Raphinha and hence, it remains to be seen as to how Thomas Tuchel sees the Argentinian as the Leeds man’s replacement.

Dybala joined Juventus from Palermo in 2015 and quickly established himself as a superstar with the Old Lady. Despite a dip in form in the middle for a couple of seasons, the Juventus forward roared back to form in style this season, putting in impressive performances.

In 39 games for Juventus this season across all competitions, Dybala managed to score 15 goals and provide six assists across all competitions. The 28-year-old was impressive for most parts under Max Allegri but Juventus struggled to exert their usual dominance.

One thing that might make the Blues be interested in the talented player is his versatility. Capable of playing on either wing, at centre-forward and even as an attacking midfielder, Dybala could offer Thomas Tuchel a lot of versatility going into next season.

More Chelsea News

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• Chelsea make enquiry about Cristiano Ronaldo transfer situation at Manchester United
• Juventus reveal their stance regarding the transfer of Chelsea target Matthijs de Ligt

It remains to be seen how this Dybala situation pans out. Whilst it is still not evident as to what role he could have in the team, a player of the Argentinian’s quality can fit into any role Thomas Tuchel wants him to play. This seems to be too good a deal to say no to on a free.