Chelsea makes shock move for £35M top-rated Reece James replacement before deadline day
Chelsea are considering whether to make a bid for Bayer Leverkusen wingback Jeremie Frimpong before the transfer window shuts, according to Fichajes.net.
The Spanish rumour mongers claim that the Blues are seriously contemplating a move to provide cover for the injured Reece James.
While the Blues captain is only expected to be sidelined for a few weeks, it appears that manager Mauricio Pochettino wants another option on the right flank, in addition to Malo Gusto.
Fichajes believe that Frimpong is the player that has been identified but Leverkusen will demand a “substantial offer” to let the defender leave the BayArena this month.
Frimpong has been linked with a number of Premier League teams
The former Manchester City and Celtic player has been tipped for a return to the UK over the past twelve months. Manchester United are thought to have been in close contact with the player’s representatives at the end of last season.
Chelsea may have other transfer priorities
It is believed that Frimpong could cost upwards of £35m, so the decision to go after the 22-year-old may come down to funds.
The Blues are also said to be pursuing a forward ahead of deadline day and, unless they consider Frimpong as a winger, rather than a defender, the London club may focus their efforts on different targets.
Lyon pair Bradley Barcola and Rayan Cherki are known to be on Chelsea’s list of options, along with the likes of Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze and Nottingham Forest’s Brennan Johnson.