Chelsea favourites to sign Dutch defender

Chelsea are considered favourites to sign Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries at the turn of the year.

The Blues were hotly linked with the Dutchman during the summer, but a deal did not materialise before the deadline.

However, the club could revive their interest in January, considering Reece James is presently out with a knee injury.

James is touted to return before the New Year, but the Blues may still want a new signing for the right wing-back role.

The workload on James is slowly becoming a concern and the hierarchy may want quality competition within the squad.

Dumfries would be a handy option with his attacking instincts and could be prised away for around €40 million in January.

Manchester United were also credited with an interest in the 26-year-old last summer, but they are unlikely to spend this winter.

After the huge outlay on six players, the board have made it clear that they won't be making high-profile signings in January.