Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Juventus centre-back Matthijs de Ligt to strengthen their defence, with the player himself keen on a move.
As per the Telegraph’s Matt Law, the Bianconeri have lowered their demands, which makes a deal more viable. Chelsea could offer a player plus cash deal involving either Christian Pulisic or Timo Werner as Juventus are no longer demanding the £102million fee for de Ligt.
De Ligt has made 117 appearances for Juventus since joining from Ajax for £67million in the summer of 2019.
Matthijs de Ligt to Chelsea – The ideal centre-back option for Tuchel?
Matthijs de Ligt’s possible departure from Juventus this summer will have caught the eye of Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, who is desperate to bolster his defence after losing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen on free transfers at the end of last season.
Chelsea's Matthijs de Ligt negotiations progressing
Club are prepared to allow Christian Pulisic or Timo Werner to move in opposite direction while talks continue over Nathan Ake's return / @matt_law_dt reports https://t.co/hqbzcEGNUT
— Telegraph Football (@TeleFootball) June 30, 2022
Cesar Azpilicueta is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2023 but is thought to be eyeing a move to Barcelona this summer. And with Thiago Silva set to turn 38 in September, it is imperative the Blues sign a central defender. Juventus’ De Ligt is the latest player to be linked with a move to Chelsea.
Regarded as one of Europe’s top young centre-backs, de Ligt’s time at Juventus since arriving from Ajax three years back, however, hasn’t been great. The Netherlands international has blown hot and cold in Italy but things could drastically change under Thomas Tuchel at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea could be the ideal destination for de Ligt to fulfil his massive potential, as the 22-year-old can learn and develop a lot from some of the squad’s experienced players. The Blues usually operate with a back-three system, which isn’t alien to de Ligt as he often plays in a back-three for his nation. So, the ex-Ajax star should be able to adapt to Tuchel’s system with ease.
The Dutch defender could fill the big hole left by Rudiger, whilst improving his game by playing alongside the veteran Silva, who continues to be the Blues’ defensive lynchpin. Plus, the 22-year-old’s leadership qualities, ball-playing ability and solid European experience at such a young age should appeal to Tuchel.
While de Ligt may have not set the world alight at Juventus, his stock remains high. Chelsea must do everything to sign the 22-year-old.
