Chelsea welcome Everton to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, in a game that could prove crucial in the race to finish in the Premier League’s top five.
The Blues came from behind to beat rivals Fulham 2-1 in the West London derby last time out, keeping Enzo Maresca’s side’s hopes of qualifying for next term’s Champions League alive.
Currently sat sixth in the standings, Maresca’s side face a daunting run in which includes games against Liverpool, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
Marecsa will therefore be desperate to see his side pick up all three points against the Toffees on Saturday, but David Moyes’ men will undoubtedly provide a stern test.
Away from the action, it appears that Chelsea have moved into pole position to sign one of the surprise packages of this season.
As per The Guardian, the Blues are now leading the race to sign Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen this summer with Real Madrid doubtful about a deal.
Maresca will want to bolster his squad this summer
The 20-year-old centre-back joined the Cherries from Italian side Juventus last summer and has since established himself as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.
His impressive displays for Bournemouth haven’t gone unnoticed, though, and several clubs are said to be monitoring the player ahead of this summer’s transfer window.
It is claimed that the player himself would prefer a move to Real Madrid if possible, but the Spanish side may not be able to afford to sign him.
Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle United are all interested in the Spaniard, the report claims, however it is Chelsea who are currently in pole position to land the defender.
Huijsen’s current contract with Bournemouth – set to expire in 2030 – includes a million release clause set at £50 million.