Chelsea identify versatile Bayern defender an alternative to dynamic 22-year-old Englishman

Chelsea identify French defender Benjamin Pavard as a potential alternative for Reece James

According to Football. London, Chelsea have identified French defender Benjamin Pavard as a defensive reinforcement that they can make in January with the versatile Bayern Munich star capable of playing at both right-back and centre-back.

A player who is best remembered for his unbelievable goal against Argentina in the 2018 World Cup, Pavard has gone under the radar for Bayern Munich. He is a constant presence in their backline and keeps going about his business without much of a fuss.

The 26-year-old defensive talent has been at Bayern Munich since 2019. Initially a centre-back, it was Hansi Flick who started using Pavard exclusively as a right-back to move Joshua Kimmich into a central midfield position. Since then, the Frenchman has been playing in that position.

Even the signing of Noussair Mazraoui has not really been a huge issue for Pavard who has continued just like he did in previous seasons, His versatility has been a huge plus for the German giants but it does look like the Frenchman is looking for a fresh challenge.

Pavard has played 20 times for the Bavarian giants this season scoring four goals across all competitions. He is a mainstay in Julien Nagelsmann’s defence and has also been selected to represent France in the World Cup in Qatar in a few weeks.

Pavard has a contract with the German club until 2024 (Transfermarkt). He is yet to pen a new deal with Bayern and it does not look like he is being offered a new contract as of yet. This has prompted some speculation over the future of the Frenchman.

Speaking to the French publication L’Equipe (h/t Football. London), the 26-year-old said about his future at the German club that he may be open to a move elsewhere:

“There’ve been no concrete talks over a new contract. I’ve immense respect for Bayern — I’m not against discovering a new project. Maybe now is the time. Why not discover a new country? The sporting project has to be interesting.”

If Pavard is indeed available, then Chelsea must not think much before pursuing a deal for the versatile defender. He can provide cover at both centre-back and right-back for Graham Potter’s side, and it remains to be seen if a deal can be worked out for him.

More Chelsea News:

• Chelsea manager Graham Potter has played down the chances of signing players in January
• Brighton transfer guru Paul Winstanley placed on gardening leave amidst talks with Chelsea
• Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi snubs Ghana World Cup chance amid England hope

The Frenchman is an interesting player for the Blues to bet on. Only time will tell if he becomes a Chelsea player in the near future.