Matthijs de Ligt is set to be on trial tomorrow as Chelsea take on Juventus in the second round of Champions League group stage matches.
De Ligt will likely line-up in defence for Massimiliano Allegri’s side when they host the Blues in Turin.
His potential battle with Romelu Lukaku could be one of the most intriguing plotlines of the evening.
But an interesting development involving the Dutchman has already occurred outside of the Allianz Stadium.
De Ligt on the lips
Last week, reports from CalcioMercato in Italy suggested de Ligt is now on the wish list of Chelsea’s hierarchy.
These claims came virtually out of nowhere and took many by surprise.
After all, the defender’s Juve contract does not expire until 2024, having only arrived two years ago from Ajax for a sizeable £67.5m (BBC).
Any plans of prizing the centre-back away from the Italian colosseum would certainly be costly.
However, Chelsea’s apparent interest directed towards de Ligt is in keeping with their transfer wishes.
Defenders in demand
The Blues tried desperately to sign Jules Kounde in the summer window, but could not come to an agreement with Sevilla.
Thomas Tuchel is keen to reinforce his fortress, especially as several key members of the rear guard could be leaving next season.
Antonio Rudiger has left fans in the dark over extending his stay, as the German’s deal continues to creep closer to its conclusion.
Thiago Silva and Cesar Azpilicueta are also out of contract in June.
Both Silva and Azpilicueta are into their 30s, with Rudiger not far behind.
Therefore, a contingency plan will need to be put into place, whether the trio confirm their allegiances or not.
That is why Chelsea have turned to the likes of Kounde, who only turns 23 in November. Or de Ligt, who celebrated his 22nd birthday earlier this month.
Both centre-halves are young, highly talented, but also extremely experienced.
They certainly look like ones for the future, whether that be at Stamford Bridge or not.
If de Ligt can pass the Lukaku test this week, maybe the Blues will leaner further in his direction rather than Kounde’s.
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