Chelsea are keen to replace Antonio Rudiger with Presnel Kimpembe from Paris Saint-Germain, although a deal could be difficult to agree.
According to Goal, Chelsea are interested in bringing Presnel Kimpembe to replace Antonio Rudiger in the summer. The Blues could be in for the Frenchman as they seek reinforcements to solve their defensive issues.
Chelsea are set to embark on a decisive transfer window, with several problems leaping up in front of Thomas Tuchel. There are areas in the squad that needs solutions, and the manager will be particularly looking at his central defensive options.
Tuchel’s use of three central defenders places important responsibilities on the centre-backs, and Chelsea are set to lose two of their prominent stars. Andreas Christensen could be leaving for Barcelona, while Antonio Rudiger inches closer to joining Real Madrid.
Rudiger, in particular, will be terribly missed by Tuchel and Chelsea, as he is one of their leaders at the back. He was vital in the club’s Champions League-winning campaign last season and has carried that form forward in this campaign.
Chelsea are considering some options to replace the German defender, with several prominent players are emerging on the radar. Jules Kounde reportedly remains a player of interest. Chelsea have also seen links to Matthijs de Ligt, who could be looking to leave Juventus if the right offer comes in. The Dutchman will cost near the €100 million mark, and he could prove an expensive option.
Now, it is being claimed that Chelsea are reportedly looking at Presnel Kimpembe as an option, although Paris Saint-Germain may prove a tricky customer to negotiate with. The French giants value Kimpembe highly and see him playing at the club for years. The French international’s current contract ends in 2024 and the club are expected to offer an extension, as they do with all their important players.
Chelsea’s interest could turn Kimpembe’s head, as he could be tempted to take up a new challenge in England, while a reunion with former manager Tuchel could also appeal to him. In such a situation, though, PSG could place a heavy price tag on the defender knowing that Chelsea will not overspend on the centre-back alone.
Chelsea are currently under sanctions placed by the UK Government, which bars them from making transfer deals in the window. It’s why they could not offer Rudiger a sizeable extension to his contract. The situation is expected to pass, with the ownership saga likely to be brought to a close in the coming weeks.
As far as Kimpembe is concerned, the chances of PSG letting the defender leave are slim. Chelsea also have their eyes on Atletico Madrid’s Jose Maria Gimenez as a potential alternative. So, it remains to be seen who they sign in the summer.
