OPINION
Chelsea are reportedly keen on signing defender Joao Cancelo from La Liga club Valencia.
Sky Sports claim that the Blues have scouted the right-back at both the Under-21s European Championships and in pre-season this summer.
It is understood that Antonio Conte’s side are interested in the 23-year-old, but they are not the only team in the running.
The Mail have also reported that Tottenham and Juventus are chasing the Portugal Under-21 international, with the latter prepared to pay £25million for his signature.
Good move for Chelsea?
Valencia ace Cancelo is a promising young talent in La Liga and the attack-minded full-back has all the attributes to succeed in the Premier League.
He made 38 appearances across all competitions last season and chipped in with four assists in return.
The Blues already have Victor Moses as their right wing-back and Cancelo would be able to provide tough competition in the new season.
However, they already have Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta that can fill in as right-sided defenders and a move for Cancelo should not be a priority.
Chelsea are in desperate need of more central midfield reinforcements and should be focusing their efforts on that in the transfer market.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
Chelsea scouts have clearly been impressed by Cancelo and feel the full-back would be a good fit at Stamford Bridge, but it appears that it would be extremely difficult to sign him.
They are yet to make a formal approach to Valencia for his signature and Conte is known to be chasing alternative transfer targets.
The reigning Premier League champions would also have to fight off stiff competition for the defender’s signature and may not want to rival Juventus’ £25million interest.
This Is Futbol rating: 3/10