Bayern Munich are not willing to pay Juventus’ valuation for Chelsea target Matthijs de Ligt this summer, according to reports in Germany.
The 22-year-old has been heavily linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge this summer.
However, the latest reports stated that Chelsea were handed a significant blow in their pursuit of the Dutch international, with Bayern Munich joining the race to sign him.
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Chelsea are looking to replace Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen after the pair moved to Real Madrid and Barcelona.
It was reported that Chelsea were preparing a €70 million bid for the Dutch defender as head coach Thomas Tuchel has given the green light to a transfer.
However, reports in Germany stated that he preferred a move to the Bundesliga as he wishes to join Bayern this summer.
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Talks between the Munich side and Juventus were said to be ‘good’ after Chelsea had also reached out to negotiate a deal this summer.
It was revealed that the Serie A giants are looking for the inclusion of Timo Werner in a deal, a player that could also interest Bayern Munich this summer if Robert Lewandowski is to depart.
Chelsea have now been handed a boost in the race for the Dutch international, with Bayern appearing unwilling to pay his valuation this summer.
As reported by Christian Falk in Germany, De Ligt told Bayern Munich that he wants to join them.
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Juventus and Bayern Munich are now said to be in contact but Bayern will not pay the requested amount of €70 million.
Chelsea should have no issue in terms of finances, with Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital promising Tuchel £200 million to spend in the transfer window as he wishes to rebuild his Chelsea squad.
De Ligt is seen as the priority in defence as the Blues search for at least two central defenders to replace their outgoing pair.
It remains to be seen as to whether Chelsea can come to an agreement with Juventus, with pressure now on after the interest from Bayern has been revealed.
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It looks increasingly likely that De Ligt will be on his way out from Juventus as he looks for his next club, with the Blues battling Bayern in the race for his signature.
Elsewhere, Chelsea remain hopeful of securing a deal for Raheem Sterling, while Barcelona are confident of signing Raphinha despite Tuchel’s side agreeing a fee with Leeds United for the Brazilian.
It remains to be seen as to who will join Tuchel's side as they hope to challenge at the top of the Premier League next campaign.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Bayern Munich, Juventus, Matthijs De Ligt, Transfers, Football
Nick Emms