Chelsea retain interest in signing Juventus defender

Chelsea have reportedly revived their interest in signing Juventus centre-back Matthijs de Ligt.

The Blues were keen on landing a central defender last summer, and they were in advanced negotiations with Sevilla for Jules Kounde.

However, they could not negotiate a suitable deal. It is now reported that the club are likely to wait until next summer to make a new signing.

While the Blues could return for Kounde, it is claimed that they could also revive their long-term interest in De Ligt, who was previously at Ajax.

De Ligt has been a solid performer for the Bianconeri in recent years, but there is speculation that he could be sold at the end of the season.

The Bianconeri value him at around £80m, but the Blues are aiming to prise him away for a lesser sum with his contract expiring in June 2024.

The Turin giants are facing financial difficulties, and this could pave the way for De Ligt's exit. He could replace Antonio Rudiger at Chelsea.

Rudiger has turned down a new Blues deal beyond next summer.