Report: European rivals swoop in for 27-year-old Chelsea target

Transfer News: PSG offer substantial money for Chelsea target Milan Skriniar

Chelsea have been strongly linked with Inter Milan centre-back Milan Skriniar in recent days but Paris Saint Germain have attempted to hijack a move for the Slovakian defender. 

The Blues have identified Skriniar as one of their top defensive targets for this summer window, besides Sevilla’s Jules Kounde who has been linked with a move to West London since last summer.  As per Footmercato (h/t Football London), the Ligue 1 Champions have launched a bid in the region of €50 million for the 27-year-old.

The centre-back has established himself as one of the driving forces at the heart of Inter’s defence, forging an unwavering partnership with Alessandro Bastoni and Stefan de Vrij in a back three. Skriniar has been influential in Inter’s recent success, helping them to the Scudetto as well as Coppa Italia and Supercoppa success. 

Such tremendous contribution and value should be making Skriniar indispensable to the Nerazzurri but Inter’s recent financial trouble may force their hands. Reports suggest that the club could bring back former striker Romelu Lukaku, but the deal would be dependent on Inter’s ability to balance their books, which would require a few key players to depart. 

Should Chelsea go all the way for Skriniar?

There is absolutely no doubt that Skriniar will solve a lot of Chelsea’s problems at the back. His prowess and ability to lead make him a no-brainer in their efforts to replace Antonio Rudiger. With Kounde potentially likely to join the Blues, the two could forge a great defensive pairing. 

Chelsea are also exploring the possibility of a swap deal involving Ruben Loftus Cheek and coupled with their interest in Lukaku, the Blues may have an edge.

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PSG’s bid might turn out to be too tempting for Inter to reject, but with two or more clubs in the mix, they are likely to bide their time and contemplate the most valuable offer. Hopefully, Chelsea can make them an offer they cannot refuse and strike a deal.