Fabrizio Romano details Chelsea’s interest in Juventus’ Matthijs de Ligt

Pride of London would like to quickly begin this piece by rounding up some more news of Chelsea stars playing for their countries. First of all, Ethan Ampadu was with Wales in a crunch match with huge ramifications. Basically the Welsh managed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, following victory over an understandably emotional Ukraine. It has been 64 years since the nation last competed in the illustrious, most prestigious of footballing tournaments. Ampadu played as a right centreback during the contest; a crucial block by the 21-year-old was noted by ChelseaFC.com.

Encouragingly for the former Venezia loanee, he was ‘comfortable’ in defence, whilst looking composed when marauding forward with the ball. Ampadu’s successful passing range was on display, too, another aspect which will please the watching Blues fan base. Good luck to the Dragons for later this year. Meanwhile, possibly leaver Marcos Alonso joined his Spanish teammates as they drew with Czech Republic in dramatic fashion. A last minute equaliser meant the Nations League points were shared. Alonso received generally positive reviews for his involvement; though Cesar Azpilicueta did not get on to the pitch via the substitute’s bench. Christian Pulisic featured for the United States versus Uruguay in a match that finished 0-0.

Fabrizio Romano details Chelsea’s interest in Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt

Let’s turn our attention to transfer speculation now. Well, to be fair to the guru of deals, Fabrizio Romano, his remarks are not merely hearsay. From what I’ve seen, heard and judged when Romano speaks, he is never wrong in his assertions and we can generally take the claims as fact. So, what has the reporter mainly concerned with club switches been saying about Chels’?

Juventus’ renowned centrehalf is the latest subject linked with CFC which the Italian has discussed, to be precise. On Monday morning, Caught Offside published their latest, exclusive column written by the lauded football reporter. Manchester United’s and Liverpool’s prospective dealings were also talked over in the article. If you’d like to see for yourself, please click here.

We all know that Antonio Rudiger will be a tough act to follow, let alone replace. And Rudiger will most probably go on to achieve further greatness with Real Madrid in Spain and on the continent in other competition such as the Champions League. Nevertheless, an heir at Chelsea is a necessary.

Jules Kounde is the probable incoming athlete to potentially fill the void. An agreement is expected there, from what PoL has witnessed. Now Romano suggests the West London side are monitoring de Ligt, and have been for months.

A possible boost emerged for Thomas Tuchel’s pursuit of the Dutchman of late. Essentially the latter is currently negotiating a new contract with the Italy team – but may reject terms unless an apparent €120M release clause is revised to a lower price.

The existing commitment expires in 2024; whilst la Vecchia Signora (The Old Lady) desire a fresh one until 2025 or 2026. Barcelona are also tracking any progress; yet the high fee should see the Spaniards retire from the race. Kounde remains Tuchel’s top priority, declares the writer.