Chelsea have reportedly made an enquiry to sign Celtic right-back Josip Juranovic. The Blues are considering recruiting a back-up for Reece James after the wing-back suffered another injury setback.
Having spent eight weeks out of action after suffering knee ligament damage in mid-October, James returned to Graham Potter's squad for December's win over Bournemouth. His return did not go to plan as he came off injured with another knock to his knee, ruling him out for up to a month.
With the January transfer window now open, there's an opportunity for the Blues to pursue a deputy right-back in James' absence. Inter Milan's Denzel Dumfries has long attracted interest from Todd Boehly following his impressive outings in Serie A and at the World Cup for the Netherlands.
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Another name that has been mentioned is Celtic's Juranovic. The Croatian has been linked with a move to England after helping his nation to a third-place finish at the Qatar World Cup, with his versatile ability to play in a handful of positions an attractive part of his game.
Whilst Todd Boehly continues talks for Enzo Fernandez, the Blues are said to be ready to test the Scottish champions' resolve to land Juranovic. According to Simon Phillips, Chelsea have enquired about the 27-year-old's services over a winter move.
Any possible transfer will present a tough task, however. Convincing Juranovic to move to London and play back-up to one of the best right-backs in the business may prove difficult, while tempting Celtic to sell their star full-back could cost more than Todd Boehly would like.
Prior to the opening of the January window, Hoops boss Ange Postecoglou hinted at Juranovic staying put when quizzed on the matter. "What I know is we are in a really good space as a club. Going into January we have already strengthened and hopefully we’ll strengthen further," he said.
"I’m in no doubt that by the end of January we’ll have a stronger squad than we did going into it."
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