Chelsea identify Dayot Upamecano as an alternative to Matthijs de Ligt
According to the Standard, Chelsea have identified Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano as an alternative, if they fail to sign Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt. New owner Todd Boehly is said to have talked with Juventus about the Dutchman transfer.
Upamecano joined Die Roten from RB Leipzig in 2021. He established himself quickly in the team, replacing Niklas Sule at the back for Bayern. The French international made 28 league appearances for the Bavarian side as they lifted their 10th successive Bundesliga championship last season.
But some reports claim that Chelsea and Bayern are in a tussle for Juventus centre-back Matthijs de Ligt. The 22-year-old Dutchman is currently one of the hottest properties in the European market. And with de Ligt favouring a move to Munich over London, Upamecano has been identified as a potential alternative.
A good signing?
Should Bayern get de Ligt, Upamecano’s role in the team could change. He could become a backup player, which would not be a good sign for him. After the fantastic season that he has had, to get replaced would hurt him.
This is where Chelsea could swoop in. Thomas Tuchel is in dire need to get his defence fixed, and Upamecano could help with that to a certain extent. The 23-year-old can also play as a defensive midfielder, apart from a centre-back. The Frenchman has shown his huge potential in the Bundesliga, and could now show it in the Premier League.
At 23, the player has amassed huge playing experience at the highest level of European football. He could be a fantastic signing for Tuchel, who is also in talks with Manchester City defender Nathan Ake. Plus, his young age would allow him to play at the back for years to come at Stamford Bridge.
However, Bayern could be reluctant to sell him as he would add depth to their squad and increase competition. If they can secure a backup for the Frenchman, they could be open to selling him. But these are just possible scenarios that could happen.
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- Transfer News: Barcelona move for Cesar Azpilicueta not imminent
It remains to be seen who Chelsea sign at the back for next season. Upamecano would be a fantastic signing and so would de Ligt. One can only hope that the Blues sign both and secure their defence for not only next season but for many years to come.
