There’s nothing more exciting than a new name being thrown into the transfer rumour mill, and that’s just what’s happened today with Chelsea and their hunt for a new left back.
Milos Kerkez has been impressing for Bournemouth this season, and the 20 year old is starting to be mentioned in connection with the Blues, as well as Manchester United, who appear to be our biggest competition in the race for a quality left sided defender this summer.
Ben Jacobs has added a lot in his latest Daily Briefing for Caughtoffside:
“Chelsea are looking for a left-back this summer. That’s because Lewis Hall will join Newcastle for an initial £28m. Chelsea have already budgeted for his departure. The obligation to buy becomes official if Newcastle finish 15th or better in the Premier League,” Jacobs said.
“Ian Maatsen is also expected to depart. The 22-year-old is having an excellent spell on loan at Dortmund. There is no option or obligation to buy, but the German club are keen to sign Maatsen permanently. Chelsea will be looking for £30-35m.
“Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is one name on Chelsea’s radar. There is nothing advanced yet, but Chelsea, along with Manchester United, have scouted the talented 20-year-old Hungarian. Kerkez has also been teasing Chelsea fans a little with his social media activity. Scouting doesn’t mean a great deal, and nothing of note is progressing yet, but Kerkez is one to watch in the coming windows.
Kerkez is young enough to fit our current model, although buying him from a fellow Premier League side is likely to make him more expensive than some other options.
It seems we will sell Ian Maatsen for around £35m then sign Kerkez for a similar amount… make it make sense!