Chelsea Still Want Presnel Kimpembe Despite Paris Saint-Germain Preference

Chelsea are still keen on signing Presnel Kimpembe this summer despite his preference to remain at Paris Saint-Germain, according to reports.

Since the beginning of the transfer window, the Blues have been working on recruiting new options for their backline ahead of the new season having lost Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.

They have already acquired Kalidou Koulibaly, who made the move from Napoli last week after eight years at the Serie A outfit.

Thomas Tuchel’s side have not taken their foot of the gas yet though, with the club keen on bringing in more defensive signings before the end of the window.

Presnel Kimpembe previously worked with Thomas Tuchel at PSG. (Alamy)

Kimpembe has emerged as one of their other targets for the summer, with the defender previously working under Tuchel when the German was at PSG.

The Telegraph are reporting that the Blues’ manager still wants them to sign the 26-year-old despite the arrival of Koulibaly and the potential addition of Jules Kounde.

However, according to the Evening Standard, there is a belief that the player could reject a move to Chelsea.

PSG are willing to let him go this summer if a suitable offer is made.

But it is thought that the centre-back is ‘very settled’ in Paris, and at the club where he has spent the entirety of his senior career having come through their academy.

As a result, a move from the French to the English capital has slowed, despite him discussing a potential move with the likes of Thiago Silva and N’Golo Kante, his former teammate and fellow Frenchman respectively.

Even though such news could see Chelsea lose out on a target, the World Champions are thought to be nearing the completion of a deal for Kounde, who has been on their radar since last summer.

They are close to agreeing a €50 million plus add-ons deal with Sevilla for the centre-back.

Tuchel's side look set to beat Barcelona to his signature despite their heavy interest.

Talks have taken place over the last few days and are approaching a conclusion, meaning Kounde will finally complete his move to Stamford Bridge after failing to do so last summer.

PSG defender Presnel Kimpembe waving at the crowd prior to the FC Metz versus Paris Saint-Germain game. (Alamy)

If he joins, he will be their second defensive signing of the window after Koulibaly, who has now joined up with his new teammates on their pre-season tour in the United States.

The Senegal international is unlikely to feature in their friendly against Charlotte FC on Thursday morning (UK).

Chelsea will be looking to make it two wins from two after their victory against Club America at the weekend.