Chelsea are reportedly targeting Juventus defender Merih Demiral in a surprise swap deal as Thomas Tuchel looks to add to his defensive options this summer.
The Blues have already lost Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer with both players set to make the move to La Liga. Jules Kounde is Chelsea's priority for a defensive signing, with Milan Skriniar, Matthijs de Ligt and Merih Demiral all being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge as well.
Demiral spent last season on-loan with Atalanta but the club refused to act on their option-to-buy clause meaning the Turkish defender will return to Juve. According to reports, Blues' midfielder Jorginho could be used in a potential swap-deal as Tuchel looks to reshape his squad ahead of next season.
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According to Calciomercato, Demiral could be used as part of a player exchange by the Blues as they look to strengthen their defence. Newcastle are also linked with the Turkish defender but Demiral would prefer to move to a club in the Champions League.
Juventus would reportedly demand a fee of around £25million for the defender, despite Atalanta turning down the chance to sign Demiral for £15million following a successful loan spell. Italian midfielder Jorginho is rumoured to be interested in a return to Serie A which the Blues could take advantage of and benefit all parties.
Giorgio Chiellini is set to leave the Old Lady this summer with a move to the MLS lined up, but Demiral is expected to be deemed surplus to requirements in Turin. Chelsea are also linked with a move for Demiral's Juventus teammate Matthijs de Ligt, with the 22-year-old reportedly considering his options this summer.
