Chelsea are reportedly among the clubs interested in signing Benjamin Pavard, who could be sold by Bayern Munich this summer.
According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Benjamin Pavard could be allowed to leave Bayern Munich in the ongoing summer transfer window after talks took place between the player’s camp and the club over his future. And Premier League giants Chelsea have shown an interest in the Frenchman, along with Atletico Madrid and Juventus.
Pavard joined Bayern Munich from fellow German club VfB Stuttgart in the summer of 2019, a year after he had won the FIFA World Cup with France. The 26-year-old has since been a permanent fixture on the right side of Die Roten’s defence, chalking up 119 appearances in which he has chipped in with five goals and 11 assists.
Pavard has won three Bundesliga titles along with the UEFA Champions League trophy during his time at the Allianz Arena. However, with Bayern Munich signing Noussair Mazraoui this summer from AFC Ajax, the French international’s spot in the side is under threat, and a separation of ways could be on the cards.
As per the update from Florian Plettenberg, several top clubs across Europe are monitoring Pavard’s situation, with Chelsea among the interested parties.
Chelsea are overseeing a massive defensive overhaul this summer. Having lost Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen as free agents, the Blues are expected to sign at least two new central defenders. With Marcos Alonso also on his way out, a left-back is also likely to arrive, while a new right-back could also be on the cards.
As things stand, Chelsea have Reece James as their first-choice option in the right wing-back slot. However, with Cesar Azpilicueta being linked with a transfer to Barcelona, the west London giants could be left without any cover in the position. It would force Thomas Tuchel’s hands to scour the market for a new right-sided full-back who can fit into his system at Stamford Bridge.
Wolves star Nelson Semedo has been touted as a target, but Pavard could be a much better option for Chelsea. At 26, the Frenchman is entering the best years of his career and has experience at the highest level from his time at Bayern Munich. Furthermore, he is also capable of operating as a centre-back, which would allow Tuchel to field him as a right-sided centre-half in his three-man backline.
The French ace has two years left on his contract with Bayern Munich, and the German champions could demand a significant fee for his services. And with Atletico Madrid and Juventus in the race for Pavard, it might not be a straightforward pursuit for Chelsea.
