CHELSEA boss Thomas Tuchel is reportedly ready to abandon plans to sign a centre-back this summer given the form of Andreas Christensen.
The German manager, 47, was expected to strengthen his backline at the end of this season but may no longer push for a new star, according to Football London.
Andreas Christensen has impressed Thomas Tuchel in place of the injured Thiago SilvaCredit: Reuters
Christensen has excelled since he was called upon to replace an injured Thiago Silva against Tottenham.
And the Dane took his chance in the heart of Tuchel’s back three with an impressive showing from the start in the 2-1 win over Sheffield United.
He made 12 clearances and won six aerial duels – more than any other Blues star.
Chelsea have the option to trigger a one-year extension on 36-year-old Silva’s deal.
Previously fourth choice Christensen is contracted until 2022 and the report states he is unlikely to sign a new deal if Silva – who wants to play until he’s 40 – stays on as he is blocking the way to his desired role in the starting XI.
The Blues would look to cash in this summer rather than lose the 24-year-old for free the following year.
Tuchel would then reinvest in the market for a new option at the back but he now could be persuaded to stick with the man John Terry once anointed as his successor at Stamford Bridge, as well as Silva.
Christensen is set to continue in the side for Thursday’s FA Cup tie against Barnsley.
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He could also keep his place for Monday’s Prem game at home to Newcastle with Silva still not 100 per cent.
The former PSG defender reassured Blues fans his thigh problem wasn’t too serious – but manager Tuchel expects him to miss the next couple of games.
The boss said: “With Thiago, we are fighting for him [to be fit] every day but he will for sure be out for the FA Cup game. So it will take time.
“It will be several days but we have set the goal: I would like him back for maybe Southampton. That’s realistic but also ambitious.
“I know Thiago, he will do everything to be ready as soon as possible but it is a muscle injury so you can’t take any risk.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
