Chelsea could reportedly look to offer their star Hakim Ziyech to Leeds United as part of a deal to sign Raphinha.
Leeds winger Raphinha, 25, is someone strongly linked with a move away from Elland Road this summer. For instance, it’s been reported Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly has personally looked into a move for the Brazil international.
CBS journalist Ben Jacobs has provided some fresh detail on Chelsea’s interest in Raphinha, too.
He explains the Blues may even look to include their £33million winger Ziyech as part of a swap deal this summer. Apparently, Leeds are admirers of 29-year-old attacker Ziyech, who’s got plenty of similarities to Raphinha.
Chelsea could offer Leeds Ziyech
Ben Jacobs, speaking on The Football Terrace, explained there could be the chance for Chelsea and Leeds to do significant business this summer.
“Don’t be surprised if Chelsea advance their interest if they bring Hakim Ziyech into the equation because my understanding from talking to Leeds sources separate to Raphinha is that Ziyech, should he leave Chelsea, has been a player on their radar,” Jacobs said.
“So there might be a possibility to do some business with Raphinha coming one way and Ziyech being given to Leeds. Because Leeds don’t just want a chunk of money for Raphinha to the tune of £55/£60million potentially, they would love to have a ready-made replacement.
“And they see Ziyech as a viable option and that would remain the case even if Raphinha goes elsewhere.”
Ziyech a headache for Tuchel
Blues manager Thomas Tuchel struggled to get the very best out of Hakim Ziyech last season, so it’s not a big surprise to his name linked in the transfer rumours.
The left-footed winger is a brilliant technician that Leeds fans would surely love.
However, he’s not quite managed to replicate his Ajax form into his two years as a Chelsea player. He’s only managed 14 goals and 10 assists in 83 Blues appearances.
If Tuchel decides he doesn’t need Ziyech next season, it could make sense to try use him to help sign Raphinha.
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