Chelsea already have two solutions to avoid £8m Man…

Chelsea already have two solutions to avoid £8m Man Utd transfer battle for Reece James back-up

Chelsea's transfer window is finally well underway. The addition of Raheem Sterling was a statement signing for Thomas Tuchel's squad and the German coach will be relieved to have a second player in the form of Kalidou Koulibaly arrive in the USA.

The Blues may still require more defensive reinforcements following the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen earlier this summer, with Presnel Kimpembe now seemingly the club's main target. Indeed, the Blues may even sign three central defenders.

Tuchel said earlier this week: "We need some centre-backs – at least two to replace Andreas and Toni. We have Azpi (Cesar Azpilicueta) at the moment in our squad, and we plan with him, but there are talks going on about his personal situation and what we want. We will be very open with you, so that makes it three."

However, the last 12 months has seen Azpilicueta feature as more than a central defender. Reece James' outstanding form was disrupted by injury, and the Spanish veteran showcased his versatility to deputise when required.

The Blues have been linked with a move for Lens defender Jonathan Clauss. Reports suggests the French full back could be available for £8million but Chelsea will face competition from the likes of Manchester United and Atletico Madrid. The club have followed Clauss' progress closely, but even with a fee reduced because the 29-year-old has entered the finally year of his deal - do Chelsea already have ample options?

It appears Ethan Ampadu may have already put his hand up for a role in Tuchel's first team squad, and he is more than willing to feature as wing-back as required, having been utilised on the right during his loan spell for Venezia, in addition to roles in the centre of midfield and defence.

The Welsh star said: "Everybody just wants to be on the pitch and thankfully I feel comfortable playing in more than one position. Hopefully I can get onto the pitch this season for Chelsea and help out the side. Wherever Thomas needs me, I’d be happy to play there. I’m more than comfortable playing, whether that’s at centre-back, in midfield or at right wing-back."

Ampadu may see competition from elsewhere in the squad, but not until after the pre-season tour of the USA. Dujon Sterling was not included in the squad for the trip but worked with the Blues' first team in the opening week as the first team returned.

Sterling featured for a Chelsea XI against Boreham Wood and looked impressive flying up the right flank. The 22-year-old ensure he was available to receive the ball and attack out wide, having played in the back three under Tuchel last summer. Sadly, his evening was cut short when he left the pitch through injury but he departed Meadow Park under his own volition.

The quality of Reece James means, he his likely to be rotated rarely and only for means of rest to prevent injury. Having a young player who is content with such a role - or is versatile enough to fit into others - could prove more useful than signing a specialist. Tuchel has made clear in his assessment of Azpilicueta's departure meaning it is another centre back that is require. Maybe he believes there is a wing-back already at his disposal.

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