Chelsea enter bidding for Barcelona defensive target

After strengthening their attack considerably during the January transfer window, Barcelona will shift their focus to defensive reinforcements in the summer.

A new centre-back will be a key area of focus for the Catalan giants considering that Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti are no longer regarded as frontline options and could be allowed to leave.

Furthermore, there have been speculations that veteran defender Gerard Pique could consider leaving the club once the season is over, which would further accentuate the need for a new centre-half.

And, Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt is among the top targets for the Blaugrana. The 22-year-old was close to signing for the La Liga bigwigs back in 2019 but, in the end, opted to join the Italian heavyweights.

The Dutchman has enjoyed a steady progression in his career in Turin and is now ready to take the next step in his career, as iterated by his agent, Mino Raiola.

SPORT claims that the former AFC Ajax captain remains high on the wishlist of Barcelona. But signing him could be out of their reach due to the financial commitments required. At the same time, there is significant interest from Premier League giants Chelsea, which makes matters more complicated.

The Blues are also scouring the transfer market for new defensive additions as they are set to lose Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger in the summer. De Ligt has been identified as a potential target, and their superior financial health puts them in a much better position than Barça to sign the Netherlands international.

As per the report, de Ligt has a release clause in excess of €100 million, but a sale could be agreed for around €65-70 million. Furthermore, he will command significant wages as well, which makes it difficult for Barcelona to get their hands on the Juventus superstar.

As a result, the Blaugrana have put their plans for the Dutchman on hold, which could allow Chelsea to swoop.