Transfer News: Chelsea are interested in Paris Saint-Germain defender Presnel Kimpembe
Thomas Tuchel remains interested in Paris Saint-Germain centre-back Presnel Kimpembe, according to journalist Matt Law (h/t The Telegraph) [subscription required].
This comes amid reports that Chelsea have reached an agreement with Napoli for Kalidou Koulibaly and are negotiating for Manchester City star Nathan Ake. Tuchel, for his part, wants to add three new defenders to his ranks ahead of next season.
Chelsea have agreed to personal terms with both Koulibaly and Ake. The former’s move looks done while the latter’s case still appears to have some work to be done. Despite this, Tuchel is interested in Kimpembe with Jules Kounde also on the club’s radar.
Kimpembe has already played under Tuchel at PSG. The 26-year-old Frenchman, who is a PSG youth product, has been a pivotal part of their squad ever since being promoted to the senior team. The French international made 30 league appearances as the Paris-based club won the French League last season.
Chelsea were also said to be interested in Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt, but Bayern Munich are now the favourites to sign the centre-back. This accelerated the Blue’s interest in Koulibaly, but Tuchel remains optimistic about a reunion with his former player.
A left-footed centre-back, Kimpembe could be the natural replacement for Antonio Rudiger, who left the club on a free transfer to Real Madrid last month. He also shares similar traits with the German defender, the most notable being driving the ball forward from the middle of the pitch.
Tuchel will also be happy to reunite with a player he has already trained. The player could also have an easy time adapting to his new surroundings as there would be a familiar face. The coach will know the player’s strengths and weaknesses properly and could utilise him in the best way possible. At just 26, Kimpembe could potentially spend his peak years at Stamford Bridge.
More Chelsea News:
- Blow for Chelsea as Ousmane Dembele close to Barcelona contract renewal
- Transfer News: Barcelona submit improved bid for Chelsea target Raphinha
- Transfer News: Barcelona move for Cesar Azpilicueta not imminent
Although it remains to be seen what happens, Chelsea fans could be hoping for an exciting month as the club failed to sign any player last month. The squad is currently in the United States for pre-season, but it could be interesting to see which new faces join them there.