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How Chelsea could line up next season including De Ligt and Kounde transfers with FOUR defenders out of contract
CHELSEA could have a different defence next season with four centre-backs out of contract next summer.
The Blues have been heavily linked with defensive signings too, though they are keen for Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger to pen new deals.
How Chelsea could line up next season if they sign Jules Kounde and Matthijs de Ligt
GettyJules Kounde has been a target of Chelsea for some time[/caption]
GettyChelsea have spoken to agent Mino Raiola about signing Matthijs de Ligt[/caption]
Chelsea have held a long-term interest in Sevilla star Jules Kounde.
The club made a move for the French defender in the summer but failed to agree a fee with the La Liga outfit.
Sevilla want £60million for Kounde and Chelsea are still interested, but face competition for his signature from Manchester United.
And the defensive reinforcements may not stop there, with Juventus’ Matthijs de Ligt also being targeted.
Chelsea have reportedly held talks with his agent Mino Raiola about a potential transfer.
The Dutch defender could be badly needed next summer, with Cesar Azpilicueta and Thiago Silva also in the last year of their contracts – as well as Rudiger and Christensen.
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An alternative XI made up of players Chelsea are linked with
Rudiger’s future is particularly uncertain amid interest from Tottenham and Bayern Munich.
Barcelona are also believed to be considering moves for Christensen and Azpilicueta.
But there is room for optimism for Chelsea, as Christensen revealed he is happy at the club and said talk about a new deal “looks good”.
Should he leave however Chelsea may need more than two new defensive signings, so could try to bring in Atletico Madrid ace Jose Gimenez – the club have held a long-term interest in the Uruguayan.
The Blues have also been linked with midfielders Jude Bellingham and Marcelo Brozovic, who could arrive on a free next summer.
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Andy Hooper-The Daily Mail(left to right) Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen are all in the last year of their contracts[/caption]
GettyThiago Silva’s contract also expires at the end of the season[/caption]
