Chelsea could use Juventus’ interest in one of their squad players to move for an Antonio Rudiger replacement who previously cost €75m, per a report.
The Blues are on course to lose Rudiger to free agency this summer. Thomas Tuchel recently confirmed his star centre-half will seek pastures new with Real Madrid the hot favourite to secure his signature.
Spanish newspaper Marca recently shed light on the eye-watering sums involved in a potential deal, including a whopping agent’s commission.
Rudiger has been a manager’s dream in the left-sided centre-back role in a back three despite the fact he’s right-footed. Finding a replacement for such a specialised position won’t be easy.
Villarreal’s Pau Torres has been touted as one potential solution to the issue. However, competition on that front is expected to emerge from Manchester United.
Another name who has drawn persistent links with the Blues in recent months is Matthijs de Ligt.
The Dutchman was a €75m signing when Juventus brought him on board from Ajax in 2019. He remains a key cog in their defensive wheel, though his contract status is causing uncertainty over his future.
He will enter the last two years of his deal this summer and Sport Witness (citing TuttoSport), report a sale might be sanctioned if it becomes clear he won’t pen fresh terms.
De Ligt to replace Rudiger?
Chelsea are noted to be big fans of the 22-year-old who has experience playing in a back three for the Netherlands – albeit primarily on the right side.
It’s suggested an approach might be forthcoming this summer and Juventus will consider their options closely.
That might not be the only business the two clubs conduct, however.
The report adds Juventus have installed Chelsea loanee Emerson Palmieri as their ‘hottest and most concrete’ target to play at left-back.
Alex Sandro currently fills that role. But at 31 and with his deal up in 2023, it could be time to move on.
Palmieri, 27, has excelled on loan with…
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