Chelsea have made contact with the representatives of Ajax star Antony amid strong interest from Manchester United, according to reports.
The Blues are set to begin their transfer activity this summer, with Romelu Lukaku on his way out of the club to sign for Inter Milan on a loan deal.
Thomas Tuchel’s side could be looking to refresh their attacking options for next season, with the futures of the likes of Timo Werner, Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech yet to be decided.
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After a fluctuating campaign just gone, Chelsea will be keen to mount a Premier League title challenge next season, having not won it since 2017.
One player who they could look to sign to bolster their attack has been revealed, although he has been the subject of strong interest from United throughout the summer.
According to 90min, Chelsea are said to have held talks with Antony’s representatives over a potential move in the window.
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His agents are believed to have recently visited the UK, with representatives from the Blues meeting with them during their stay as the World Champions monitor the player’s situation.
Antony has spent two seasons at Ajax, scoring 22 goals and assisting another 20 in 79 games across all competitions since he signed in 2020.
The 22-year-old has been under the management of Erik ten Hag during that time, with the Dutchman now preparing for his first season as United’s new boss.
A move to Old Trafford would therefore see the duo reunited, with the Brazilian thought to be the Red Devils’ ‘primary attacking target’ for the summer window.
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There is also belief that Antony himself would like to leave Ajax this summer, and therefore a transfer battle could begin for his signature ahead of the new campaign.
It has been revealed that Chelsea are set to focus on strengthening their attacking and defensive options this summer.
Ousmane Dembele, who could leave Barcelona as a free agent this summer, has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, but there is thought to be a stumbling block in the Blues’ pursuit of the winger due to the player’s wages.
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Manchester City star Raheem Sterling is another speculated target for Tuchel’s side and with just one year left on his contract at the reigning Premier League Champions, he is expected to resolve his future in the next two weeks.
Richarlison is also the subject of interest to Chelsea, having played a crucial part in keeping Everton safe from relegation last season.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Antony, Manchester United, Football, Transfers
Robert Calcutt