Chelsea has entered the competition to sign Matthijs de Ligt, a defender from Juventus and the Netherlands, as Thomas Tuchel tries to replace Antonio Rudiger....CONTINUE READING
After Rudiger’s move to Real Madrid, the Blues are looking for a new central defender and have been connected with Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.
Chelsea are also interested in De Ligt, according to talkSPORT, and Tuchel may make a move for the Dutchman as he looks to rebuild his defense.
Rudiger has been a regular at Stamford Bridge for several seasons, and Chelsea was anxious to keep him.
However, a move to the Bernabeu was confirmed last week, and Chelsea are eager to find a replacement before the summer transfer window opens on Friday.
During his time at Ajax, De Ligt became one of Europe’s most highly ranked defenders, helping Erik ten Hag’s side win the Eredivisie and reach the Champions League semi-finals.
Chelsea aren’t the only team interested in the center-back, with Manchester United, Chelsea’s Premier League rivals, also linked with a move since Ten Hag took over as manager.
On Sunday, De Ligt was asked about his future at Juventus, and he told Dutch source NOS: ‘Talks are ongoing, and when the time comes, I will decide whether to renew or look elsewhere.’
‘In terms of the sports project, I always consider what is best for myself.’ Second place in a row isn’t good enough; we need to make moves in the right way.’
Last season, De Ligt started 29 of Juventus’ 39 league games as the club finished fourth, 16 points behind Serie A champions AC Milan.
