Chelsea have not yet ‘given up hope’ in their pursuit of Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt despite the strong interest from Bayern Munich, according to reports.
The Dutch international has emerged as one of the Blues’ top targets for the summer transfer window, as the west London side look towards a defensive rebuild in preparation for the new season.
Both Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen have left Chelsea for pastures new, so new recruits are needed for the backline in order for them to compete on various fronts once again.
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As the window has progressed, de Ligt has been heavily linked with a move to west London, which would see him leave Juventus after three seasons in Turin.
However they are now facing strong competition for the 22-year-old from Bayern, who are also keen on acquiring the centre-back this summer.
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Despite the links with the German Champions, ESPN are reporting that Chelsea ‘have not given up hope’ for the defender.
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He is thought to prefer a move to the Allianz Arena, but the Blues have not yet backed down in their pursuit of the centre-back.
While they remain keen on bringing him to west London, Thomas Tuchel’s side have also been working on other deals for their defence next season.
Kalidou Koulibaly is close to signing for the club, with Chelsea and Napoli recently being reported to have agreed a fee of around €40 million for the Senegal international.
He will also sign a four-year-deal at the club, marking the end of his eight year stint in Naples.
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While defensive recruits are surely on their way to Chelsea this summer, Raheem Sterling is set to be named as their first signing of the window as he makes the move from Premier league title holders Manchester City.
He penned a letter to the City fans on Wednesday afternoon, with the winger writing: "Seven seasons, eleven major trophies, a lifetime of memories.
"To the coaching staff who have played a massive role in my development over the years, to my teammates who have become more than just those I share a pitch with, to the backroom staff, to the office staff, to the fans who have tirelessly supported the team, and to everyone involved with Manchester City, my respect for you couldn’t be greater.
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"What a ride it’s been.
"I am thankful for the ups and the downs. As it’s the downs that have, at times, tested my strength and resolve, and enabled me to stand here in front of you as the best possible version of myself.
"I arrived in Manchester a 20-year-old, today, I leave as a man.
"Thank you for your endless support. It’s been an honour to wear the shirt of Manchester City."
Topics: Chelsea, Matthijs De Ligt, Juventus, Bayern Munich, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Football, Transfers
Robert Calcutt