Chelsea are said to be monitoring Ousmane Dembele’s situation closely over the next day, according to reports. It comes as the Frenchman’s contract at Barcelona is set to expire on July 1.
The 25-year-old has been linked with a move to the Blues since January, where his contract situation created uncertainty surrounding his future. A move to Stamford Bridge could see him reunite with former boss Thomas Tuchel, as the German coach looks to reinvigorate his forward line.
It comes after a season of struggle in front of goal for the west London outfit, though new ownership has signalled a change in the hierarchy as well as the squad. Tuchel is believed to have over £200million to utilise in the transfer market, with a chance to make some key additions.
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The exit of Romelu Lukaku could be followed by more as the forward department is reshaped. In terms of arrivals, a number of high-profile players have been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
Raheem Sterling, Raphinha and Dembele are just a few that have been rumoured to be of interest to the Blues this summer. However, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs, the club has a plan when it comes to the latter option.
The report states that Chelsea will only make a move for Dembele if his deal at Barcelona expires, though an offer will still be dependent on the agreement of personal terms with the forward. It also comes at a time where the Blaugrana are attempting to sign Leeds winger Raphinha.
The Brazilian has already had an offer from the Blues accepted by his club, though reports state that he is waiting to see whether Barcelona can match it. As the time of writing, they are yet to do so and have had a verbal bid turned down.
With both players occupying the same role, it remains to be seen whether either deal will impact the other. However, the actions of the Catalonian side are likely to change the course of the transfer window for Tuchel.
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