Journalist Simon Phillips has claimed that Chelsea are now in the market to sign the next Virgil van Dijk.
He told his Substack that the Blues are currently intrigued by the idea of signing a Dutch centre-back, due to their history of performing at the highest standards.
Van Dijk has proven to be a dominant figure in the Premier League for years now, with many sides dreaming of having a player just like him in their side.
Chelsea have certainly had some quality defenders in recent history. Thiago Silva is still putting in sensational performances at the age of 39.
There is also reason to be excited about the future of the position. Levi Colwill and Benoit Badiashile in particular are already looking like stars of tomorrow, whilst making their impacts in the present day too.
However, it has been claimed that they could return to the market in either January or the summer, with them having a very particular target in mine.
Chelsea looking for next Virgil van Dijk
Phillips said: “Sources say that Chelsea still have a new centre back on the agenda, likely to be for the summer, although January has not been ruled out.
“We’ve been told to keep an eye on potential Dutch centre backs who could become available. This is because the data shows that historically many Dutch defenders who have come up through the ranks have shown they can develop into ‘difference makers’ at the back and be ‘dominant’ figures.
“Examples such as Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool, Sven Botman of Newcastle, and Micky van de Ven of Tottenham have all been given.”
With Silva likely in his last season, the Blues could be hunting for an experienced option to replace him.
They have been strongly linked in the past for a move for Manchester City defender and former star Nathan Ake.
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