Chelsea aren’t short of left-backs, but reports from Spain suggest the Blues could dip into the transfer market for another. Chelsea eyed Alphonso Davies earlier in the season and Alejandro Alcazar of Sport says they could return this summer.
The Blues want to strengthen at left-back despite being overstocked in the position. Mauricio Pochettino has Ben Chilwell, Marc Cucurella and Levi Colwill at his disposal, but Davies is still on their shortlist. Chelsea were told to sign the left-back four years ago, but a deal never materialised.
How good is Davies?
Davies joined Bayern from Vancouver in 2019 and has made 180 appearances in all competitions. He’s played in 27 games across the board this season, contributing four goals.
Per Whoscored, the 23-year-old is joint-second in the squad for tackles (1.9 per game) and third for interceptions (1.1 per game). He’s third for dribbles (2.6 per game) and fourth for chances created (1.5 per game), so it’s easy to see why Chelsea would be keen.
Do Chelsea need another left-back?
Chilwell has struggled with injuries since his 2020-move from Leicester. Cucurella has struggled for consistency since his 2022-move from Brighton. Colwill is a natural centre-back. And Ian Matsen would have been another option at left-back had Chelsea not loaned him out to Borussia Dortmund. Chelsea are overstocked but lack an available and consistent option on Davies’ level.
The Canadian international is regarded as one of the best in Europe, so he would be a significant upgrade. Is he clamouring to join the Blues, however?
Real Madrid are eyeing Davies too, so they’re a far more attractive proposition than the West Londoners.
And Davies wouldn’t come cheap either. He has an asking price of £43m, so Todd Boehly might have to sell before he buys. Chelsea are trying to be more sensible after Boehly’s £1bn frenzy, so only essential signing may be prioritised.
The 23-year-old could leave Bayern as his contract is up in 2025 without an extension in sight. Davies could depart on a free transfer if a new deal isn’t agreed, so Bayern may prefer to cash in early. Chelsea may hope to capitalise on his situation in Germany, but getting a deal over the line is a challenge.
In other news, Chelsea have a ‘strong desire’ to sign Mohammed Kudus
