Chelsea plotting shock move for Southampton star

Chelsea’s hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League look increasingly likely to depend on whether or not they lift the trophy this term. 

The Blues currently sit tenth in the Premier League table, 11 points behind Tottenham Hotspur who occupy the final Champions League qualification spot.

This summer looks likely to be one of huge change at Stamford Bridge, despite The Blues having splashed more than £500 million on no fewer than 16 new signings since Todd Boehly took charge of the club last summer.

A number of players from across Europe have been linked with a move to the west London club, but it now appears that they are eyeing a Southampton star.

As per Football Insider, Chelsea will look to add Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu to Graham Potter’s squad when the transfer window reopens this summer.

It is claimed that the 23-year-old defender was close to a move to Stamford Bridge back in January, but talks over a proposed deal collapsed.

Salisu is attracting interest from other Premier League clubs

The west London outfit are now ready to reignite their interest in the centre-back, who has impressed for the struggling Saints this term.

So far, the Ghana international has made 28 appearances across all competitions.

Salisu joined Southampton from Spanish side Real Valladolid in the summer of 2020 and made his debut for the club the following year.

He has now made 80 appearances for the south coast side, but his contract is set to expire next summer and the report claims that a bid in the region of £25 million could be enough to sign the defender.

Chelsea added Benoit Badiashile to their ranks during the January transfer window, but appear to still be in the market for another central defender.

Salisu’s versatility will also appeal to potential suitors, with the Ghanaian able to play at left-back as well as in his more natural central defensive role.

As well as Chelsea, fellow Premier League sides Manchester United, Leicester City and Aston Villa are also said to be interested in the defender.