Chelsea are reportedly weighing up a January move for 26-year-old Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries.
According to a report from Calciomercato, Chelsea could look to make a move for 26-year-old Inter Milan Denzel Dumfries if Reece James fails to recover from his injury quickly.
The English right-back is currently sidelined with a knee injury and is set to miss the upcoming World Cup. While there are suggestions that James could return to action after the World Cup, the Blues seem worried about his situation and are prepared to plan for contingencies should the injury keep him out for a long period of time.
James is the only natural right-back in the Chelsea squad apart from Cesar Azpilicueta, who features sparingly. So it makes sense for the Blues to dip into the transfer market for a replacement in January if the Englishman fails to recover quickly.
Dumfries was linked with a move to the Premier League in the summer transfer window as well. But the Inter Milan managed to hold on to him back then. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea can convince the Serie A giants to part with their prized prospect midway through the season now.
The 26-year-old defender could prove to be a quality acquisition for Chelsea. And his arrival would add some much-needed depth to the Blues’ backline as well. Dumfries has two goals and two assists to his name this season.
The Dutchman could compete with Reece James for a starting berth, and it will only improve Graham Potter’s squad. Chelsea and Inter Milan have negotiated big money moves in the past, and the two clubs already have an amicable relationship in place. It will be interesting to see if the Blues can use their connections to bring the defender to the Premier League in January.
Dumfries has a long-term contract with Inter Milan until 2025. And the Serie A giants are unlikely to let him leave for cheap. Chelsea would have to pay over the odds to secure his services in the coming months.
The Blues have already spent big money on Kalidou Koulibaly and Wesley Fofana during the summer transfer window. And it seems that they are not done strengthening their defence just yet.
