Chelsea hijack Tottenham’s dream January transfer plan as Graham Potter eyes N’Golo Kante successor
According to reports, Chelsea and Tottenham are in competition to capture Juventus sensation Weston McKennie. The 24-year-old has been linked to the Premier League for some time.
The American’s impressive performance for the United States in Qatar has only increased interest in his services. He was instrumental in each of his country’s World Cup matches, guiding Gregg Berhalter’s squad to the round of 16.
Nevertheless, despite McKennie’s best efforts, the Netherlands halted the United States with an impressive performance. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, he piqued Graham Potter’s interest, and the Blues are now prepared to compete with Spurs for his signature.
Chelsea are reportedly on the market for a new midfielder as the futures of Jorginho and N’Golo Kante, whose contracts at Stamford Bridge expire at the end of the season, become increasingly dubious. The pair will be eligible to begin pre-contract negotiations with foreign clubs in January regarding respective summer free moves.
Despite speculations to the contrary, the Italy international’s agent, Joao Santos, stated that his client is intent on securing a long-term career in west London. Concerning Kante, the France international has endured an injury-plagued few months at Chelsea, which naturally raises question on whether the club will attempt to retain him.
Both have failed to sign new contracts, leaving Chelsea with little assurance on their futures. Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Moises Caicedo all recently been widely linked with moves to west London, but McKennie has emerged as the more affordable option.
Calciomercato reports that Juventus has placed a €30 million (£25.8 million) price tag on the American, whose contract with the club expires in 2025. According to the report, the Old Lady are experiencing financial difficulties and may thus decide to sell McKennie.
After the United States’ scoreless World Cup match with England, Brad Friedel pushed Tottenham to sign the Juventus star. In an interview with Online Casino, the former Tottenham goalkeeper stated: “If the finances work then Tottenham should definitely be in for McKennie.
“He’s the best central midfielder the US has ever had. Against England he showed his quality and I think he’d be a brilliant addition for any big side in Europe.”
Chelsea hijack Tottenham’s dream January transfer plan as Graham Potter eyes N’Golo Kante successor
