Chelsea target 26-year-old Serie A star as high-calibre competition for Reece James

Transfer News: Chelsea eye Denzel Dumfries as competition for Reece James

According to 90min (h/t The Sun), Chelsea are interested in Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries as a high-calibre competitor for Reece James.

James is expected to be on the sidelines for up to eight weeks after he picked up a knee injury against AC Milan earlier this month. This also means that the 22-year-old is likely to miss the World Cup next month.

This has left Cesar Azpilicueta as the only natural right-back in the team. Graham Potter has also tried using Raheem Sterling in that position, but they both have not had the same impact as the 22-year-old.

Now, the Blues want to add depth to the right side and have identified Dumfries as a potential target. The 26-year-old was of interest to the west London club even during the summer.

However, the Blues saw multiple bids rejected for the Dutch international with his £35 million price tag proving to be a hindrance in the negotiations. But with Potter searching for an alternative for James, they could consider the price this time around.

Dumfries has been a regular at the San Siro since moving there in 2021 from PSV Eindhoven. The right-back has made 16 appearances this season in all competitions, contributing to two goals and an equal number of assists in the process.

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It would make sense for the Blues to go after such an experienced right-back. While James is likely to continue to be the first choice, it would not hurt for the Englishman to have some competition. Also, in situations when one player is out for a long time, a strong deputy in his place will only help the club to continue to win games.