According to reports from France, PSG have turned down the opportunity to sign Chelsea target Matthijs de Ligt this summer.
According to GFFN, the Ligue 1 winners are instead confident on signing Milan Skriniar from Inter Milan, another defender who has been touted by the Blues.
Chelsea were reported to be in a good position to sign the 22-year-old, with him rumoured to be keen on a move to the Premier League.
However, Thomas Tuchel’s side look set for another transfer battle, as German giants Bayern Munich have reportedly announced their interest.
While it is unlikely that the Bundesliga side would be able to compete with the Blues financially, competing with Europe’s elite for a transfer poses all sorts of problems.
PSG out of De Ligt race
This is why they will be delighted with PSG’s lack of interest, with GFFN reporting that they were originally offered a move for the Dutchman by his agent, Rafaela Pimenta.
The report goes on to say that the Parisians are optimistic over a deal for the Slovakian Skriniar, agreeing personal terms in principle already. They claim Chelsea remain ‘in direct talks’ over the signing.
De Ligt joining Chelsea would see the club bring in a leader for the next decade, offering the experience and ability already to build a defence around for at least the next decade.
With Thiago Silva likely entering his final season with the Blues, a captain-like figure is essential to bring in soon, with De Ligt holding the record for being the youngest captain in Champions League knockout history.
The Netherlands international is certainly not the only name being looked at for potential defensive reinforcements, with compatriot Nathan Ake a target to bring in from Manchester City.
It is believed that a deal for the former Chelsea man is further along than that of De Ligt, and with Ake’s ability to play on the left of defensive systems, the void of Antonio Rudiger could push the club in this direction instead.
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