Chelsea 'Negotiating' With Leicester for Ben Chilwell With Defender Keen on London Move
By Adam Aladay
Chelsea are said to have opened negotiations with Leicester for defender Ben Chilwell, and according to the report from Spain, the left-back is keen to make the move to London.
Frank Lampard has made the signing of a left-back one of his top priorities, with the futures of Marcos Alonso and Emerson Palmieri uncertain. As a result, the west Londoners have been linked with potential moves for a number of defenders from around Europe.
Most recently, Monaco's Fodé Ballo-Touré became the latest name to join the shortlist of potential targets.
Another name on this shortlist is Chilwell, who has been a key figure for an impressive Leicester side in 2019/20. A source confirmed to 90min back in November of 2019 that the left-back had attracted interest from Manchester City, but Chelsea were ready to compete with any offers for him.
Spanish outlet TodoFichajes now report that the Blues are in negotiations with the Foxes regarding Chilwell. However, the report adds that Chelsea will need to 'bid hard' as Chilwell is also on the 'agenda' of City, Atlético Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
As for the left-back himself, he is said to have already told his agent that he is keen on a move to London, potentially paving the way for him to complete his switch to Stamford Bridge. One problem that continues to be an issue is his price tag.
90min learned in April that Chelsea were considering a move for Layvin Kurzawa despite Chilwell being the number one target. This is because Leicester value him at around £75m, while the competition has also encouraged the club to keep their options open in their search for a world class full-back. As a result, should Chelsea fail in their pursuit of Chilwell, they could turn their attention towards Kurzawa.
However, if this report is to be believed, the latest development suggests both parties are working hard to make a deal happen.