GiveMeSport
·2 July 2022
GiveMeSport
·2 July 2022
Chelsea’s potential signing of Juventus and Netherlands centre-back Matthijs de Ligt would be a “huge statement of intent” according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have been linked with a move for the defender over the past few weeks.
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea are pursuing a deal for the former Ajax centre-back, with a potential player plus cash deal being offered, with Christian Pulisic being the player to head to Turin.
The same report also suggests that Timo Werner had also been discussed in a potential swap deal, but the Serie A club would entertain a move for Pulisic rather than the German striker.
According to Tuttosport (via Fabrizio Romano), Juventus CEO Maurizio Arrivabene has said: “It’s impossible to keep players when they want to leave the club – but all the three parties in the negotiations have to be satisfied,” potentially hinting at a departure for the £63m-rated man.
Todd Boehly will be looking to provide Tuchel with the funds to begin a rebuild of the west London side this year, with no less than seven players having left the club so far this summer, according to Transfermarkt.
And O’Rourke believes that the signing of de Ligt could send a message out to the public about Boehly’s ownership.
He told GIVEMESPORT: “If Chelsea were to meet that and spend over £100m on de Ligt, that would be a huge statement of intent from Chelsea.
“It does seem like Todd Boehly is trying to mix things up at Stamford Bridge right now, and he’s putting his money where his mouth is and backing Thomas Tuchel.
Chelsea fans would be delighted if they could secure the signing of one of Europe’s hottest centre-back prospects, and at the age of 22 de Ligt, who has been described as “superb” by Mina Rzouki, has plenty of room to improve.
The 38-time Netherlands international made 42 appearances for the Italian giants last season, scoring three goals and providing one assist from the back, according to Transfermarkt.
The 6 foot 2 colossus is a competent passer of the ball, ranking in the top 20% of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues and European competition for pass completion per 90 minutes (89.5%) according to FBref, which would suit Tuchel’s system down to the ground, should the German manager choose to play three at the back next season.
The Dutchman is also competent in the air, using his height to his advantage, ranking in the top 17% of centre-backs for aerial duels won per 90 minutes (3.57) according to the same stats provider.
The signing of de Ligt would be a superb addition for a backline in need of replacements for both Antonio Rüdiger and Andreas Christensen, and if they can get a deal over the line, it could close that chasm to Liverpool and Manchester City just a tiny bit.