Chelsea have now joined the race to sign an “unbelievable” defender, alongside two of their Premier League rivals, according to a report
As we approach the summer transfer window, it is becoming clear the Blues will look to bolster their defensive options, with AFC Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen of particular interest, having recently made contact over a deal for the 19-year-old.
However, with Real Madrid also interested in Huijsen, it could be tricky to win the race for the teenager, meaning the west Londoners may have to move on to other targets, with versatile Barcelona defender Jules Kounde thought to be among them.
Kounde could also be brought in to play at right-back, with Enzo Maresca also keen to strengthen in the full-back area this summer, despite already being relatively well-stocked in that position.
Reece James and Malo Gusto are already on the books at Stamford Bridge, although Maresca’s side are arguably a little weaker on the opposite side of the defence, given that Marc Cucurella is one of the only options at left-back.
According to a report from Spain, Chelsea are seeking a solid alternative to Cucurella, and they have now joined the race for AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez, who is also a target for Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City.
A huge transfer battle could be on the cards this summer, with Hernandez’s contract set to expire in 2026, which means AC Milan could look to cash-in this summer, although they may not hold out for a huge fee.
The “unbelievable” Frenchman’s valuation is around £30m, which seems like a reasonable figure for the left-back, given that he has proven himself in the Serie A over the course of a number of seasons.
Cucurella has been impressive on the front foot at times this season, having picked up four goals and two assists in the Premier League, but there are signs Hernandez could be capable of providing even more of an attacking threat for the Blues.
The 27-year-old has amassed 34 goals and 45 assists in 256 appearances for Milan, while also ranking highly across some key attacking metrics over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.
Freelance scout Ben Mattinson is a big fan of the France international, describing him as “probably the best” attacking left-back in the world, while members of the media have stated the defender has “incredible speed”.
Hernandez could be a fantastic signing for Chelsea, and the Blues shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to sign him for the bargain fee of just £30m.