Chelsea are looking to wrap up a new defender as soon as possible after a number of transfer targets fell by the wayside.
Jules Kounde is nearing a move to Barcelona following disappointment for the Blues in their bids to sign Matthijs de Ligt and Nathan Ake.
Presnel Kimpembe and Milan Skriniar remain on the Chelsea radar while Denzel Dumfries has emerged as a favoured option at right wing-back.
Thomas Tuchel could also be tempted to bolster his midfield as rumours of Frenkie de Jong’s potential interest in joining refuse to go away.
Here is your latest update of Chelsea transfer news and rumours...
Denzel Dumfries
Chelsea are looking to take advantage of Inter Milan’s need to raise funds with a bid for Dutch star Dumfries, according to Standard Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella.
Having missed out on a new centre-back signing so far, the wing-back could bolster Tuchel’s flanks and allow Cesar Azpilicueta to focus on central defensive duties with Reece James also an option to tuck inside.
La Gazzetta dello Sport, via TMW, claim Inter’s starting price in negotiations will be £34million with the Italians expecting talks to accelerate this week.
Frenkie de Jong
Chelsea are the only club Barcelona midfielder De Jong would consider leaving the Camp Nou for, as reported by Sport.
Manchester United have had a £70m offer for the Dutchman accepted by the LaLiga giants as they look to gather funds for their multiple signings, but the player is focused on remaining with the Blaugrana.
If he is to leave, it is claimed that Chelsea is his preferred destination although the Blues are yet to match United’s offer - pointing towards the player staying in Barcelona with the club owing him a hefty salary after Covid-related deferments.
Jules Kounde
Barcelona hope to complete their move for Chelsea target Kounde today.
There are contrasting reasons doing the rounds as to why the Blues pulled out of the deal, including Kounde’s desire to move to Barcelona and Chelsea’s unwillingness to meet Sevilla’s eventual demands for a fee.
According to Mundo Deportivo, those at the Spanish side’s pre-season base in Dallas are working to seal the defender’s arrival in time for their tour friendly in New York on the weekend.
