Chelsea could be set to make a sensational move for Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar this summer, according to reports.
The Blues are in the market for attacking players, with Raphinha said to be considering personal terms after Leeds United accepted a £55 million offer from Chelsea.
However, recent reports have handed the Blues a setback as Barcelona are said to be ‘very alive’ in a deal for the 25-year-old.
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There are set to be as many as six incomings this summer at Stamford Bridge as Thomas Tuchel looks to rebuild his squad.
Ousmane Dembele has been linked with a move to Chelsea as Tuchel could consider teaming up with his former player.
However, recent reports have suggested that a different reunion could be on its way to London as Neymar has been linked.
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According to French outlet Le Parisien, Neymar 'no longer feels comfortable' at PSG and a 'separation seems inevitable'.
Chelsea were previously revealed as one of only three clubs that could financially afford to make a move for the 30-year-old, who has spent the past five years in Paris.
Le Parisien continue to state that Neymar has not yet asked to leave the Ligue 1 side but that if he does, Chelsea could become a contender for his signature.
Tuchel worked with the Brazilian during their time together in Paris.
As quoted by Chelsea’s official website back when Tuchel was appointed at Stamford Bridge, Neymar heaped praise on the German.
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He said: “I would give my life on the pitch for Tuchel.”
Chelsea defender Thiago Silva, who is a friend of the Brazilian, is reportedly in contact with his national teammate.
The report continues to state that Silva is trying to convince Neymar to move to Stamford Bridge.
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This comes after Silva urged Neymar to join the club publicly in recent days.
He said: “He has to go to Chelsea. If it happens, it will be for the best. He needs no comments… So far, I don’t know anything, but I hope it comes to fruition.”
However, there has been a setback in the deal as Chelsea co-owner and interim transfer director Todd Boehly is more interested in a move for another player.
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He would rather see Dembele sign for Chelsea on a free transfer once his deal at Barcelona expires at the end of the month.
It was reported that Chelsea will revisit a deal for the 25-year-old if he becomes a free agent as they could look to pull off a swoop for one of Tuchel’s former players.
It remains to be seen as to whether the Blues will look to bring in another attacker if they are successful in their pursuit of Raphinha, with Raheem Sterling also looking set for a Stamford Bridge switch.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Neymar, Thiago Silva, Todd Boehly, Transfers, Paris Saint-Germain, Football
Nick Emms