Pride of London examine Chelsea transfer talk, including Ismael Bennacer, Denzel Dumfries, Rafael Leao and Jude Bellingham.
Before we begin detailing and analysing Blues speculation, there have been further positive developments whilst players are on international duty. Kai Havertz scored a brace for Germany versus England, in the meantime Mason Mount netted for the Three Lions in the same drawn game.
Other positive results also transpired as Conor Gallagher got a goal in an Under-21 clash as the Germans were defeated by the English. Other CFC stars got on well in their respective fixtures by most accounts. In addition to that, N’golo Kante is back in light training again, Edouard Mendy is in full training and Christian Pulisic returned from injury to play for USMNT.
Chelsea transfer rumours: Ismael Bennacer, Denzel Dumfries, Rafael Leao, Jude Bellingham
Yes, it is only September at present – the month in which the transfer window actually shut – but PoL attempt to scrutinise each and every story about the west London side. This way, in theory, we are in touch and continue to keep our readers up-to-date even with possible movements in and out of Stamford Bridge. That being said, let’s get down to business.
Firstly, AC Milan’s Bennacer. The Algeria international is apparently on Chels’ manager Graham Potter’s wishlist for January. Milan are reportedly trying to have the defensive midfielder sign a contract extension which could see his price rise upwards from a valuation of €40-50million.
Liverpool also want the 24-year-old, which invariably adds to the difficulty for any club vying for a signature – even Chelsea. If Kante, Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic are on the books next season, I can’t see a need for this particular signing, although the Algerian is quality.
Dumfries is someone I wholly endorse. I have been a fan of his since for at least three years, following his flying appearances in Europe for PSV Eindhoven. The 26-year-old has continued to impress overall for Inter Milan and his national side.
Potter wants competition for Reece James at rightback, similarly to the situation on the opposing flank with Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell. Dumfries is seen as the man capable of doing so; £50m is being talked about in the media, with Chelsea intent on acquiring the Dutchman.
Manchester City are said to have joined the Blues in pursuit of Leao, again of the Rossoneri. The winger seems to have the talent necessary to make it in the Premier League, though his contractual issues are concerning. Bellingham chatter won’t go away, either. Liverpool and Real Madrid are supposedly ‘ahead of CFC’ in the running for the Englishman, but the latter club are not deterred by a £130m valuation. PoL’s verdict on the 19-year-old can be found here.