Chelsea are in direct talks with Paris Saint-Germain over defender Presnel Kimpembe, according to reports.
The 26-year-old is of interest to Thomas Tuchel’s side, with the pair working together during their time at PSG.
With both Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen having left Chelsea in the summer, the Blues were in dire need of central defensive reinforcements.
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With Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta, Malang Sarr and Trevoh Chalobah as the only senior defenders from last season's squad heading into this pre-season, Ethan Ampadu and Levi Colwill were handed the opportunity to impress on the United States tour.
While the former did not feature against Club America due to injury, Ampadu looked a natural in the centre of a back three.
Furthermore, Chelsea brought in former Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly for £34 million, with the Senegal international set to be a key player under Tuchel.
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However, the German wants to make more additions in defence, and Kimpembe is one of the latest names to be linked.
Tuchel is said to have already made contact with Kimpembe in an attempt to sell his Chelsea project to the 26-year-old.
And now the latest reports have stated that Chelsea are in direct talks with PSG over a move for their academy graduate.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the two sides are in discussions over a potential transfer.
The French club are initially requesting a fee of between €60/65 million as they prepare to sign Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar this summer.
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However, Chelsea are only prepared to submit a proposal of €45/50 million for the French international.
Furthermore, Kimpembe is seen as part of the project at PSG under Christophe Galiter but he will be given the final say on his future, with the club ready to let him leave if a good proposal is brought forward this window.
Ben Jacobs continued to add to the discussion, stating that Chelsea see the valuation as too high for the defender as of now.
There is a big week ahead as Chelsea wish to lower the price of the defender, while Juventus are also interested.
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Kimpembe is said to be more intrigued by a move to Chelsea rather than joining the Serie A side this summer.
However, Chelsea will also step up negotiations for Jules Kounde within the next week as a transfer for the 23-year-old will depend on Sevilla, who have been tricky to negotiate with so far.
It remains to be seen as to who will join Koulibaly at Chelsea, with the Blues looking to add to their backline ahead of the new season.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Thomas Tuchel, Paris Saint-Germain, Football, Transfers, Premier League