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‘Always been the dream’: Chelsea are just desperate to sign £67m star, but it may be impossible – journalist

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Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt is said to be Chelsea’s ‘dream’ signing this summer, although it may be just out of reach.

Journalist Dean Jones told the ‘Done Deal Show’ that the club are interested in the Dutchman, although his situation at the Old Lady could put a stop to any deal.

De Ligt joined Juventus from Ajax in 2019 for £67m, after the Dutch side went on a stellar run in the Champions League, reaching the semi-finals.

While the Netherlands international has not quite lived up to his potential yet, he remains a highly-sought after figure to build a defence around.

Wales v Netherlands: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 4
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Chelsea have had reported interest in De Ligt for a while now, with Barcelona supposedly being priced out of the move.

However, latest reports suggest the 22-year-old may also be out of budget for the Blues, with Jones signifying the deal might be just out of reach.

He said: “De Ligt has always been the dream for Chelsea, they wanted him before he went to Juve. I still think he’ll be out of reach now, he’s earning top money and would warrant a top, top transfer fee and wants to crack on with Juve for now.”

Juventus v SS Lazio - Serie A
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De Ligt would be an exceptional addition to the Chelsea back line, with him being an obvious replacement for the ageless Thiago Silva.

His stature and ability on the ball would make him a perfect Premier League defender, with his vast experience at such a young age making him the ideal role model for someone like Levi Colwill.

The Blues however are already needing to sort out their wage structure. Two of their most important players, Mason Mount and Reece James are two of the lowest paid members of the first team, so an introduction of another young star on a lot more money has the potential to cause a major rift in the squad.