Chelsea ‘plotting’ surprise move for Italy international wanted by West Ham

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Chelsea have reportedly joined the race to sign Real Betis centre-back and Italy international Luiz Felipe this summer. West Ham are also said to be keen admirers of the player and are actively pursuing the £17million rated defender.

According to Spanish newspaper Estadio Deportivo, Mauricio Pochettino has highlighted Felipe as a key candidate to fill in for Wesley Fofana after suffering a serious knee injury. The 22-year-old missed 20 games last season due to reoccurring issues with his knee and is now set to undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL) surgery, which will keep him out for the majority of next season.

Speaking about Fofana’s injury, Pochettino said: “Really sad, really bad news. We feel so sad. We can only help him and to be again with the team we know it is tough. We need to help him and wish him all the best. We need to keep going, the competition is there. The competition doesn’t wait for anyone and we need to be ready.”

When asked whether he may be able to play again this season, Pochettino replied: “I hope yes. You have all of the information that this is difficult. He is evolving in a different way but hopefully, his recovery goes very well.”

Felipe signed for Betis last season from Lazio on a free transfer and played 30 appearances in his maiden campaign. Like Fofana, Felipe has dealt with his fair share of injury problems in the past.

However, last season he remained fit for the entirety and impressed enough to get his first call-up for the Italy national side. Felipe is noted for his physicality and excellent one on one defensive skills.

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At 6 foot 2 and 80kg Felipe fits the bill of an archetypal Premier League centre-back and is deceptively quick for a man of his size. But Felipe isn’t the only option to fill the void left by Fofana.

Chelsea have also been linked with moves for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, Manchester United’s Harry Maguire and Josko Gvardiol of RB Leipzig.

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