Breaking news: Pochettino comfarm that he wants £30m defender in January as Reece James replacement
Chelsea have identified Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong as a possible replacement for the injured Reece James, according to reports.
The Blues are understood to be in the market for another right-back following James’ continued injury concerns. The captain started in the Premier League draw against Liverpool before sustaining a hamstring injury in training.
New signing Malo Gusto has since started in place of the England international in Mauricio Pochettino’s defence against West Ham and Luton Town. The 20-year-old registered two assists in Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Luton on Friday but reports indicate that another wing-back could be signed before the window closes on Friday.
As reported by football.scotland, former Celtic ace Frimpong has attracted interest from his performances with Leverkusen. The Netherlands international has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time after emerging as one of the most-talented attacking wing-backs in Europe.
The 22-year-old has impressed immensely since moving to Germany from Celtic in 2021 for £11.5million. Last season, he scored nine goals and assisted 11 for Xabi Alonso’s side and has started the current campaign with two goals and an assist in three games.
It’s said that Chelsea are ready to launch a bid for Frimpong before Friday’s deadline, although an offer of more than £30million is going to be needed if they are to secure his services.
Frimpong was linked with a move to Arsenal and Manchester United earlier in the window. Both teams are said to have been considering a move for the wing-back to bolster their attacking output from defence. The Gunners signed Jurrien Timber instead and United boss Erik ten Hag remains in the hunt for a new defender.
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