Transfer News: Chelsea have four defenders shortlisted for next season
According to news from Daily Star, Chelsea have shortlisted four names for the summer transfer window as they aim to add a centre-back to their side. Apparently, it is one area that manager Thomas Tuchel wants to strengthen going into the new season.
The club have conceded just twice in the 13 games they have played under Tuchel. The likes of Cesar Azpilicueta, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger have been impressive, backed by the reliable Edouard Mendy.
However, with Azpilicueta and Thiago Silva ageing and Antonio Rudiger’s future still uncertain, it looks more reasonable to add to the defensive ranks.
The club have identified four players namely David Alaba, Niklas Sule, Ibrahima Konate and Jose Maria Gimenez to shore up their defence next season.
David Alaba confirmed earlier this year that he would be leaving Bayern Munich at the end of this season upon the expiry of his contract. While Chelsea were said to be ahead in the race to sign him, they have been knocked back. The defender is keen on a move to La Liga.
The 25-year-old Sule is one of the best players at Bayern and is their defensive rock at the back. With Jerome Boateng not getting any younger, Sule can be considered the future of the Die Roten rearguard.
A towering presence at the back, Sule is also an incredible athlete with the pace to burn. An all-rounder, it is clear to see why he is wanted at Stamford Bridge.
Another Bundesliga prospect, Konate has been with Leipzig since 2017, having joined from boyhood club FC Sochaux. During his time at the Saxony-based outfit, Konate has grown into a promising young centre-back with loads of potential.
Finally, there is Gimenez. It’s not hard to see why Gimenez is among the names being considered by Chelsea. He is one of Diego Simeone’s trusted lieutenants, who plays a big part in their highly astute defensive structure. A no-nonsense defender, Gimenez is not someone who shies away from challenges.
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All those names are some of the finest young central defenders in Europe and Chelsea are rightly targeting them. It remains to be seen if Chelsea let go of any player first before signing anyone.
Nonetheless, signing even one of the three players would be a good long-term investment.