Report: Chelsea waiting on Lukaku closure before making bid for £38m ‘amazing’ wing-back
Reports from Italy suggest Chelsea are preparing to make a move for Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries.
According to Calcio Mercato Web, the Blues are waiting for Romelu Lukaku’s departure to be confirmed before turning their attention to their own signings.
The Belgian’s dismal return at Stamford Bridge looks set to come to an end, with the clubs reportedly having agreed a loan fee for the 29-year-old to recoup his relationship with Inter.
Business between the two sides may not yet be over, with Chelsea now reportedly looking to make a bid for wing-back Dumfries.
Calcio Mercato Web claim the Dutchman is well regarded among management at Stamford Bridge, with the clubs set to enter talks after Lukaku’s deal is confirmed.
However, the report states Inter value the 26-year-old at around £38m, potentially pricing the Blues out of a deal.
The Netherlands international impressed at Euro 2020, with pundit Ally McCoist described him as ‘amazing to watch’.
He carried that form into last season’s Serie A campaign, contributing five goals and five assists despite only starting 21 games.
His attacking threat has been a staple of his game since before his move to Italy from PSV Eindhoven, with skills similar to those highlighted in current wing-backs Reece James and Ben Chilwell.
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Dumfries would be an excellent signing to provide competition for James on the right of Chelsea’s defence, and his experience playing as more of a wide midfielder suiting Chelsea in terms of their system.
However, the price Inter are reportedly looking for would be difficult for the Blues to defend paying, especially with the quality of the England international they already have at their fingertips.
The club would be better of looking at Jonathan Clauss from RC Lens, with a far more achievable price on the table for the French international.
