Chelsea have Real Madrid transfer issue as Graham Potter eyes defender

Crystal Palace V Chelsea In Pics

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Chelsea have been handed a hammer blow in their pursuit of Milan Skriniar, with reports emerging that Real Madrid are also interested in signing the central defender. The 27-year-old’s contract at Inter Milan expires at the end of the season, capturing the attention of several top sides.

Following the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen at the start of the summer, recruiting defenders was top of the ‘to do’ list for the Blues ahead of the start of the season. Kalidou Koulibaly, Wesley Fofana and Marc Cucurella were all purchased, with Cesar Azpilicueta also offered a new contract.

However, Chelsea still remain keen to bolster their defensive ranks and are eying up a move for Skriniar – presumably as a replacement for veteran defender Thiago Silva. The Slovakian international was Paris Saint-Germain’s top target over the summer but were told that the defender was not for sale, with Inter desperate to renew his contract.

Though, according to Marca, via Calcio Mercato, it is becoming increasingly likely that Skriniar will leave the Italian outfit at the end of the season, with Real Madrid a potential destination. Carlo Ancelotti’s side are interested in signing the defender on a free transfer in the summer of 2023, though they will have to fend off Chelsea and PSG if they are to secure his signature.

JUST IN: Rafa Benitez ‘rejects’ Nottingham Forest contact as Spaniard has sights set elsewhere

Skriniar has shone in the heart part of a back-three at Inter, which will certainly prove an attractive prospect to Graham Potter. The former Brighton boss is yet to implement his tried and trusted 3-4-3 at Stamford Bridge yet, though he may be waiting to sign his own central defender before putting that system into force at his new club.

Following Potter’s appointment, it emerged that the Englishman would be well-backed in the upcoming transfer windows so that he could bring in players that he feels fit into his style of play and mentality of the squad. Therefore, it should not be discounted that Chelsea table an offer for Skriniar in January to try and jump the queue for the former Sampdoria star.

DON’T MISS…
Tottenham have £45m regret in problem they could’ve fixed for free
Chelsea star Callum Hudson-Odoi sends subtle message to Graham Potter
Man Utd could sell Cristiano Ronaldo to four clubs in January 

Though Glenn Johnson has said that Potter should also be ruthless when it comes to outgoings too and be willing to part ways with those who are surplus to requirements. He recently told Boyle Sports that the Blues should be willing to entertain offers for N’Golo Kante in January if he does not pen a contract extension with the club.

He said: “Chelsea should possibly cash in on N’Golo Kante, he’s been linked with many clubs that might want him. They’re struggling to agree on a deal with him too. If Kante wants to stay and play then I’m sure Chelsea will want him to. But there’s always a business decision when a player might want too much, or the club is giving them too little – then they should shake hands and part ways.”

Source: Read Full Article