Transfer News: Belgian star turns down Chelsea to sign for Bundesliga giants

Thomas Meunier signs for Borussia Dortmund amidst Chelsea interest

According to the Daily Mail, Borussia Dortmund have won the race for Thomas Meunier.

The 28-year-old joined the Bundesliga giants on a free transfer in spite of garnering interest from the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur. (h/t Daily Mail)

According to the report, the Belgian has signed a four-year deal at the Signal Iduna Park.

Chelsea have missed out on Thomas Meunier
Chelsea have missed out on Thomas Meunier (Image Credit: Twitter/ ThomMills)

Meunier took to Twitter to express his joy at signing for Dortmund and has spoken of opening a new chapter in his life. The move should come as a boon, having failed to establish himself as a regular at PSG.

His transfer will see the Ligue 1 Champions short of cover when the Champions League resumes in August. Not that Dortmund, who they dumped out in the round of 16 will mind.

An experienced veteran, he would have been the perfect foil to rotate alongside the promising but young Reese James. Cesar Azplicueta is not getting any younger meaning Meunier would have gotten his share of chances at the Bridge.

James is talented but inexperienced
James is talented but inexperienced

James is held in high regard and is expected to grow into a world-class right-back. He is, however, still young and in need of guidance. He would definitely have relished challenging himself against a seasoned professional who could also have been a mentor to him.

Amidst the big-money signings this summer, Meunier would have been an excellent Bosman signing. Alas, it is not to be.

More Chelsea News

The Belgian has made 128 appearances in his four years in Paris. He has contributed 13 goals and 21 assists, in what is an impressive tally for a defender.

Meunier has won 40 caps for the Belgian national side while scoring seven goals. He was part of the national squad for the 2018 World Cup where they finished third.