Chelsea expected to bid for Denzel Dumfries

Chelsea are expected to make a formal bid to sign Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries this week, Gazzetta dello Sport claim.

The Blues were interested in the Dutchman earlier in the transfer window when they were negotiating Romelu Lukaku's exit.

It was claimed that he could join them in a swap deal for the Belgian, but the Nerazzurri ended up re-signing Lukaku on a dry loan.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Blues have now revived their interest in the former PSV man, who is valued at £34m by Inter.

The London giants feel the asking price is 'excessive' but they are still expected to make an opening bid below Inter's price tag.

The Blues have Reece James as the regular right wing-back, but Thomas Tuchel could play him as a central defender next term.

James is comfortable operating from the right side of the back three, and it could become a permanent position if Dumfries joins Chelsea.

Dumfries had a superb debut season for Inter last term, registering five goals and seven assists from 45 appearances across all competitions.