Transfer News: Chelsea interested in Marquinhos

Chelsea are reportedly interested in Paris Saint-Germain star Marquinhos as Thomas Tuchel faces defensive uncertainty next summer.

According to Fichajes, Chelsea will target some notable central defenders next summer, with Marquinhos as the primary target. Thomas Tuchel could be staring at a major defensive crisis next summer as several key members could leave the club.

One look at Chelsea’s current stable of central defenders will convince anyone that they have the best set of players in the position. Tuchel has been an expert in rotating his options at the back, with all his stars playing this term sufficiently in all competitions. Andreas Christensen, Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva, Trevoh Chalobah and Cesar Azpilicueta all take up central positions under the German.

They also have Malang Sarr on the fringes of the team, as the manager has only used him sporadically. However, they might face problems holding on to some key stars there next summer. Rudiger, Silva, Azpilicueta and Christensen are in the final year of their respective contracts with the club, as there are fears the duo might depart on a free transfer.

Chelsea are trying their best to tie them down on new deals, although the outcome is still very much unpredictable. Rudiger, in particular, is a player the Blues want to keep, although they are unable to match his financial demands. He is tipped to join Real Madrid, who could fulfil his needs, while there were reports that the German international was open to joining Bayern Munich.

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Meanwhile, Christensen is stalling on a new deal, and Tuchel’s recent comments over the defender’s situation certainly outlined Chelsea’s wish to retain him. Azpilicueta and Silva are also being linked with exits, which poses a problem for Chelsea next season. As a result, the west Londoners are reportedly interested in Marquinhos.

The Blues supposedly tried to sign the Paris Saint-Germain star in the summer and might return with a suitable offer. They also have other players on their shortlist, with Fenerbahce star Attila Szalai a target. They also are willing to shell out massive fees for Matthijs de Ligt, although they might put in the effort over the PSG defender.

Marquinhos is considered key by the French giants, who are unlikely to sanction a move easily. The Brazilian has been a part of the furniture at Parc des Princes since the club’s takeover by the Qatar Sports Investments. In fact, he was handed the captain’s armband following the exit of Thiago Silva last year.

Chelsea might be willing to pay top dollar for the defender, but PSG are expected to resist the temptation and look to keep their star centre-back. It remains to be seen how the Blues rectify their situation. Ideally, they would want Rudiger and Christensen to stay put and sign new deals. In the scenario where they have to get new players in, they will not hesitate to spend big on quality replacements.