Chelsea now in hot pursuit of £42m "big star" who's a key target for Arsenal

Chelsea are now in hot pursuit of an important Arsenal target, having recently stepped up their interest, according to a report.

Blues eyeing a right-back

Reece James has already matched the number of Premier League appearances he made last season, with his tenth outing coming in the 2-1 loss against Aston Villa at the end of February, but the 25-year-old has continued to struggle with injuries.

There have also been reports linking Malo Gusto with a move away from Stamford Bridge, which means a new right-back may be required in the summer, and potential targets have now been identified.

Talks have been held over a move for Flamengo right-back Wesley Franca, with the 21-year-old impressing in his native Brazil, but there have also been reports Enzo Maresca’s side could make a move for a player with more experience at the top level.

Chelsea now planning to submit £50m offer for "spectacular" midfielder

The Blues are set to make a bid for a 20-year-old, who is now considered one of their key targets.

By
Dominic Lund

Mar 9, 2025

According to a report from Spain, Chelsea have now stepped up their interest in Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries, and they are now said to be in hot pursuit of the right-back, but there could be stiff competition for his signature.

Manchester United and Arsenal are also named as potential suitors for Dumfries, with the north Londoners viewing him as a key target to bolster their options at right-back, which is a position they are keen on strengthening as a priority.

The Dutchman is now becoming increasingly likely to leave Inter this summer, with the Serie A side setting an asking price of €50m (£42m), making him a relatively affordable option for the three Premier League clubs in the race.

"Big star" Dumfries impressing for club and country

The 28-year-old has chalked up 63 caps for the Netherlands, and he received high praise from Rafael van der Vaart just under a year ago, at which point he was on a remarkable run of assists.

Chelsea are already relatively well-stocked at right-back, but James’ injury issues mean Maresca cannot depend upon the captain, so it could make sense to pursue a new option this summer, and Dumfries is proven at the highest level.