Chelsea may sign a new centre-back this summer if they fail to convince two key players to sign new contracts, according to Goal.
As it stands, the Blues have three defenders on the final year of their contracts at the club; Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, and Cesar Azpilicueta.
All three have been important parts of Thomas Tuchel’s back-three system.
While Chelsea would not have to worry about losing a potential substantial transfer fee even if they keep 31-year-old Azpilicueta and lose him on a free transfer next summer, it would not be the case for the other two.
From a financial perspective, Chelsea would want to cash in on Rudiger and Christensen this summer rather than losing them on free transfers next year.
Goal suggests that Chelsea will still try to begin new contract negotiations, likely after the Euro 2020, but the London side may enter the market for a new centre-back if the talks collapse.
Chronicle view
Losing these two will certainly have a big impact on Tuchel’s plans for the new season since Christensen and particularly Rudiger proved crucial to the 3-4-3 system.
Obviously, Tuchel will still have Thiago Silva whose contract has been extended for another year, as well as Kurt Zouma and perhaps even Reece James.
However, Silva will be 37 in September and unlikely to be able to start in all competitions throughout the season.
Chelsea have been linked with Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane whose contract expires next year. According to Florentino Perez, the France international will be allowed to leave this summer if he wants to.
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