"Stay home": Chelsea trying to force out £25m-rated United target out of club - Fabrizio Romano

07/22/2024 03:15 PM

Manchester United have already strengthened their backline with a statement signing, bringing highly sought-after centre-back Leny Yoro to Old Trafford from Lille.

However, it appears United are keen on adding another central defender to their ranks, having parted ways with both Raphael Varane and Willy Kambwala this summer.

Matthijs de Ligt appears to be at the top of the club’s wishlist. Earlier today, The Peoples Person covered a report claiming the Red Devils have submitted a €35 million bid for the Netherlands international.

Bayern Munich, however, have turned down the offer in hopes of receiving a fee in the region of €50m. The valuation in the gap between the two sides may force United to look for another option.

In that regard, Chelsea’s latest move has given them a transfer boost.

Earlier this summer, it emerged that United are monitoring Trevoh Chalobah’s situation at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have been trying to sell their academy asset amid financial fair play concerns. It is understood that the 24-year-old is valued at around  £25m.

Chalobah, who is contracted to Chelsea until 2028, has not shown any great desire to leave his boyhood club. However, Chelsea, determined to raise funds, have now taken a strong measure in their aim to force him out of the club.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have not included one of their current most senior defenders in their squad for the pre-season tour to the USA. The player has been told to ‘stay home’.

More on Trevoh Chalobah. Chelsea told him to stay home and not travel for pre season.

Tough call but club feel squad is heavy with Wesley Fofana, Axel Disasi, Tosin Adarabioyo in that position.

Acheapong will travel for US tour as club want to take a good look at him. pic.twitter.com/rUazNWVvbr

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 22, 2024

Should United fail to find an agreement with Bayern, they may do well to revisit their interest in Chalobah.

Not only is the English centre-back going to cost significantly less than De Ligt, but he is also more versatile, capable of also playing at right-back.

United are reportedly keen on strengthening their right-back position as well and have explored the possibility of signing Bayern full-back Noussair Mazraoui.