Chelsea eyes defensive reinforcement with Aitor Paredes in January transfer window
During the upcoming January transfer window, Chelsea has set their sights on Athletic Bilbao’s outstanding 23-year-old center defender, Aitor Paredes.
The Sun has exclusively learned that Chelsea’s interest in Paredes has increased after the club attentively examined the player’s outstanding displays in seven scouting sessions this season.
“Chelsea value Paredes’ ability to pass the ball out from the back alongside his strong athletic profile,” states the report in The Sun.
“The player is known for both his strength and recovery pace and looks set to earn a call-up to the Spanish national team for the upcoming Euros.”
The Blues, keen to add to their defensive options, have begun negotiations with Bilbao over a potential transfer fee for Paredes.
While Chelsea is apparently willing to pay £60 million for Conor Gallagher, Real Madrid is unable to define a fee, while sources indicate a £20 million number.
However, the West London club will face heavy competition in their pursuit of Paredes. Real Madrid and Inter Milan have both showed interest in signing the young centre-back, making it more difficult for Chelsea to get him.
As Bilbao fights for a UEFA Champions League ticket in La Liga, currently in fourth place, the Spanish club sees Paredes as an important asset.
With 17 league starts and two replacement appearances this season, Paredes has shown his defensive prowess, confirming his place in Ernesto Valverde’s plans.
Despite the stiff competition, Chelsea remains motivated to strengthen their defense and is likely to manage their delicate talks in their pursuit of Aitor Paredes in the January transfer window.
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