Chelsea are reportedly keen on signing 21-year-old English full-back Archie Brown, and they will face competition from West Ham United.
A report from London Evening Standard has claimed that 21-year-old English full back Archie Gray is on the radar of Chelsea and West Ham United. The two London clubs will have to spend around £15 million for him.
Brown currently plays for Belgian club Gent. The opportunity to return to his homeland could be an attractive option for him. The former Derby County defender will certainly be attracted to the idea of joining one of the biggest clubs in the country in Chelsea.
The Blues are in need of a quality left-back, especially after the disappointing performances from Marc Cucurella. Brown could be a long-term alternative to the Spaniard, and he could be an understudy to Ben Chilwell.
It will be interesting to see if the Blues decide to sell Cucurella in the summer. Ian Maatsen is also expected to leave the club permanently. The defender is currently on loan at Borussia Dortmund, and they have an option to sign the player permanently for a set fee. In addition, the Dutchman is keen on completing a permanent move to Signal Iduna Park.
Meanwhile, Archie Brown will be looking to showcase his qualities in the Premier League, and he could develop into an important first-team player for the Blues. Chelsea have prioritised the signing of talented young players since the change of ownership, and it is hardly a surprise that they are looking to sign Brown in the summer.
West Ham United could have an advantage in Archie Brown chase
Chelsea will face competition from London rivals West Ham United, who are in need of a quality left-back as well. The Hammers will have to find a long term replacement for Aaron Cresswell. Cresswell is in the twilight stages of his career, and signing a young defender to replace them would be a wise decision from the Hammers.
It will be interesting to see if they can beat Chelsea to his signature. Brown would be a quality long term addition for both clubs, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. West Ham will probably feel that they have a better opportunity to convince the young defender to join them because they might be able to offer him regular football.
At Chelsea, he is likely to be backup option to Chilwell. Brown needs to play regularly at this stage of his career, and he needs to join a club where he will get ample first-team opportunities. Meanwhile, the reported £15 million asking price seems reasonable for a player of his potential. and he could easily justify the investment if he manages to fulfil his tremendous potential.
