CHELSEA could be lining up in a bold new way next month.
That’s because they are reportedly chasing a shock deal for Manchester United captain Harry Maguire.
The England centre-back has emerged as a target for Thomas Tuchel before deadline day.
United are hoping to land Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic on loan.
But the Blues want to take advantage by raiding Old Trafford for Maguire.
They are struggling to get a deal done for Wesley Fofana, with Leicester holding out for an eye-watering £85million fee.
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And Maguire has emerged as an alternative target.
He is reportedly facing the axe for United’s upcoming clash against Liverpool.
Erik ten Hag has already splashed out on Ajax’s Lisandro Martinez.
And the Dutch boss could now sanction a stunning switch.
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Should Maguire join Chelsea, he would likely slot straight into Tuchel’s three-man defence.
That may be ahead of Cesar Azpilicueta, with Thiago Silva and Kalidou Koulibaly already nailed-on to start.
But Maguire is unlikely to be the only new faces in the side.
Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong remains in Chelsea’s sights, especially now that N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic are both out injured.
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As for the attack, Chelsea have agreed personal terms with De Jong’s teammate Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
However, Barca are holding out for £25m, while Chelsea are only prepared to pay £15m.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk