Arsenal could be set to hand Chelsea a major blow in their mission to sign a new midfielder before the summer transfer window slams shut this evening. Thomas Thomas has been in the market for a long-term replacement of either Jorginho and N'Golo Kante, who each see their contracts at Stamford Bridge expire next year.
However, despite the Blues' boss' wishes, Todd Boehly has signed just two midfielders this term of little experience; one of whom has been steered into the development squad - Cesare Casadei - and the other - Carney Chukwuemeka - is yet to feature for the first-team. But, the west Londoners have unleashed a late ploy yo finally grant Tuchel his wish.
According to Dutch journalist Rik Elfrink, Chelsea have turned their attention to PSV Eindhoven midfielder Ibrahim Sangare late in the window. The 24-year-old, who enjoyed a superb campaign in the Eredivisie last season alongside Cody Gakpo, has quickly become heavily linked with a move to west London, though he's been subject to great interest from other Premier League clubs beforehand.
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However, Rik Elfrink adds that, with both Sangare and Gakpo both close to exits, the Dutch giants would prefer to sell the latter. And, if that happens, the former would not be permitted to join Chelsea.
Gakpo has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League for some time now, whether it be Southampton, Arsenal or Manchester United. Despite having directly contributing towards nine goals in four league games this season, Sangare - a defensive midfielder - is still seen as the more important figure by PSV, which is great reading for Tuchel and Chelsea supporters alike.
Sangare, who sees his contract at the Philips Stadion expire in 2027, has featured thrice for the Dutch side this season, with his defensive prowess guiding the club to top of the table. The Manchester Evening News say that the Ivory Coast international has a €35million (£30.3m) release clause in his contract at PSV.
Speaking to Dutch publication De Telegraaf in May, Sangare made it clear that he fancies a switch to the Premier League. He said: "I am a PSV player, and I am concentrating on the three games we have left this season.
"I don’t have my head in other things. After that, I’ll go on holiday, and I’ll have time to talk about possible next projects. But until then I don’t want to worry about that.
"Playing in the Premier League is not only a dream of mine but a dream of every footballer. That is the biggest and most important league in the world."
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