Bayern Munich sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic travelled to Turin for discussions with Juventus over the future of Matthijs de Ligt and is optimistic over compelting a deal. The Dutch defender is one of a number of players on Chelsea's transfer shortlist as the Blues look to recover from the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.
The west London side are believed to be in advanced talks for Nathan Ake from Manchester City with both a fee and personal terms being discussed, while Jules Kounde remains an option that could be revisited. Chelsea have held discussions with their own with Juve, in the hope of landing de Ligt this summer but they are yet to bear fruition.
Bayern Munich entering the race has undoubtedly made Chelsea's chances of signing the defender more difficult, with the 22-year-old's preference said to be for the Bundesliga champions. However, Juventus are set to favour whichever team provides a more comprehensive package when making their bid.
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Salihamidzic is now set for talks with Juventus chiefs however and upon his arrival was asked about the transfer and simply replied 'let's see'. The Bayern chief was caught by the press again as he made his departure and was asked if there was optimism over completing the transfer. 'Always' was the reply as recorded by Goal.
Reports suggest that the German side are set to offer £76 million, meaning that it will take no small fee for Chelsea to be successful in landing the former Ajax ace. Goal suggests that could comprise of £63 million upfront and £13 million in add-ons.
The Serie A side had initially hoped to keep the player they paid £6 7.8 million for in 2019. The Netherlands international has two years remaining on his deal, with discussions over an extension still taking place as recently as June.
"Negotiations are ongoing at the moment and when the time comes I will decide whether to extend or look elsewhere. I always look at what is best for me in terms of the sporting project," De Ligt told Dutch outlet NOS, while on international duty.
It appears that Juventus have now conceded that their charge will depart the club. Juve CEO Maurizio Arrivabene has previously said of de Ligt's situation: “Today, keeping a player who wants to leave is impossible. It’s not always about the money and if one wants to go, you don’t just tell him: ok, go ahead."
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