Thomas Tuchel could well pursue previous interest from Chelsea surrounding the transfer of Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham.
EuroSport suggested that Chelsea were continuing to scout the 17-year-old – having already identified him as a possible target last November.
This would be as a replacement for Declan Rice, who was Frank Lampard’s top priority signing whilst still in charge at Stamford Bridge.
The Guardian recently reported that the pursuit of the West Ham’s midfielder would end following Lampard’s departure.
Bellingham could become an alternative option if Chelsea do decide they need to strengthen in the defensive midfield area.
Tuchel has a Dortmund link with the young talent, having coached they’re for two years and overseeing the development of similar stars such as Christian Pulisic and Ousmane Dembele.
Birmingham City sold Bellingham to the Bundesliga side for £25m (Sky Sports) in the summer and has been a regular starter under Edin Terzic.
Former City midfielder Karen Carney said he reminded her of a ‘young Patrick Vieira’ because of ‘how he tackles and plays from box to box’ (BBC Sport).
However, Dortmund might have to sell some of their key assets if they fail to qualify for the Champions League this campaign (Daily Mail).
Bild said that Jadon Sancho, Gio Reyna and Raphael Guerrerio were the possible fall guys but Bellingham could well be sold for extra cash.
Keeping within the German lines, EuroSport stated that Erling Haaland remains on Chelsea’s radar and if he becomes available, they would jump at the chance of gaining his expensive signature.
Haaland is currently a teammate of Bellingham at Dortmund and if Tuchel could ensure a double deal for the pair, Blues supporters would be singing his name.
The Chelsea Chronicle View
Give me Haaland and I’ll give you my soul, Mr Tuchel. Slightly extreme, I must admit, but there really is no player in world football like him right now.
Bellingham on the other hand is a different case. We have young midfielders at our disposal but it just depends how the new coach decides to use them.
There are already rumours of Billy Gilmour’s withdrawal and I’m sure several others will follow suit.
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