(Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
Chelsea have identified Southampton right-back Kyle Walker-Peters as a potential option to bolster their defence this summer, according to Evening Standard.
Improving the right wing-back role has always been a priority for the Blues with reports suggesting they are targeting Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries to add to the options available. However, the Nerazzurri intend to keep hold of him beyond this summer transfer window (Fabrizio Romano), forcing them to look for alternatives targets
Walker-Peters has now become a possible addition for Thomas Tuchel’s side, but the Saints are optimistic about warding off interest from elsewhere. Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are said to value the Tottenham Hotspur academy graduate in the region of £30-£35million at this moment (The Telegraph).
The Athletic reported last month that Spurs have the option to activate a £30million buy-back clause for the English international, having sold him to south coast outfit for £12mllion back in 2020 (Daily Mail), with Arsenal and Manchester United also said to be monitoring his situation.
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Chelsea lack depth in the right wing-back position, with Reece James being the only natural option available in the squad as of now. While Cesar Azpilicueta can play there, his performances have waned in that position over the last year or so.
Furthermore, Azpilicueta has also been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona ahead of the next season (Sport). Tuchel has also used Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ruben Loftus-Cheek at times in the right wing-back role, but they are not dependable in the long term.
As such, Walker-Peters would be a solid addition indeed, as he can back up James while also being flexible enough to be utilised on the left-hand side of the backline. That makes the ex-Tottenham player an attractive prospect, although the Blues are plotting to sign Brighton and Hove Albion ace Marc Cucurella at this point.
Walker-Peters’ current valuation can be deemed pricey right now, so it will be interesting to see the stance Tuchel’s team takes regarding this situation. It would be best if they are quick about it, with several of their direct rivals proving to be potential risk factors in this pursuit.
