Chelsea are said to be confident in securing the services of sought-after Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong.
What’s the word?
That is according to a report from Sport, via Sport Witness, who claim that the Blues remain interested in the Barcelona star, whose future remains uncertain.
As per the report, Chelsea are “waiting” for the player and, despite Manchester United possessing the most urgency to sign him, Tuchel’s side have not withdrawn from the saga yet because they “know” that De Jong would be “more predisposed” to joining them over Erik ten Hag’s side.
It is said that Chelsea will “play this trick at the right time” in order to sign the player, with a belief that the Netherland’s international’s desire to play in the Champions League could have a “decisive influence” on his final decision
It is said that Barcelona are looking to receive a fee of around €80million (£67.6m), though we would expect Chelsea to negotiate a lesser sum.
Boehly’s brilliance
Todd Boehly, who has received stick for his decision to appoint himself the interim sporting director at Chelsea, has had a brilliant window so far – especially considering the time frame of his tenure.
The American has implemented a clear strategy this window, despite the club’s scattergun exterior across the summer.
Ultimately, he has been able to identify and execute deals within days – which cannot be said for the likes of Manchester United, who are seen to be Chelsea’s biggest rivals for the signing of De Jong.
If Chelsea can pull off a deal for the 25-year-old midfield string-puller, then it would be the icing on the cake for what has been a tremendous and busy window for the Stamford Bridge outfit.
With an average of 2.83 shot-creating actions, 5.63 passes into the final third and 5.33 progressive passes per 90 – Chelsea’s engine room would benefit from the inclusion of a progressive and astute midfielder who would no doubt help them to create more clear-cut chances in front of goal.
Last season, De Jong created 43 chances, whilst Jorginho and N’Golo Kante created 51 chances between them.
