Transfer News: Chelsea are interested in signing Atalanta star Joakim Maehle
According to journalist Simon Philips (h/t football.london), Chelsea are interested in signing Atalanta BC right-back Joakim Maehle. This could allow either Marcos Alonso or Cesar Azpilicueta to leave.
The Euro 2020 star joined the Italian side in 2021 from KRC Genk. A regular player since then, the Danish international made 35 appearances for the Serie A outfit last season. Thomas Tuchel has been in the market for a defender and Maehle appears to have made the list.
Current players Alonso and Azpilicueta are said to be interested in leaving the club this summer with Barcelona being the preferred destination. However, with Barcelona having spoiled Chelsea’s transfer window so far the Blues are reluctant to do business with the club.
The Catalunya club first swooped in and snatched Raphinha from Chelsea. If that was not enough, they hijacked the transfer of Jules Kounde. In a retaliatory response, Tuchel is said to have blocked the sale of both the players to Barcelona.
But now with interest in Maehle could potentially remove such a blockade. The Denmark international rose to prominence as he was a part of their famous Euro 2020 squad that reached the semi-finals of the competition, losing out to England.
He could be the backup to Recce James who is preferred by Tuchel at right-back. Just 25 years old, the player could spend his peak years at Stamford Bridge. His defensive nature is a great quality in him and Tuchel could deploy him in the back three also.
However, Chelsea could face competition for the player. Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United are said to be interested in the right-back. As for a fee, Atalanta want around €15 million. A decent price for a decent player, but Tuchel and co will have to act fast if they don’t want to lose him to a rival.
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It remains to be seen if Chelsea make a move for the defender. A decent player, he would be a very good addition to the squad. He could help provide the depth needed for the long season ahead. Fans will hope to see him at Stamford Bridge rather than with a rival.