Chelsea Transfer News: Why the Blues Should Pursue Samuel Inkoom

With West Ham United hot on the trail, Chelsea needs to step up its pursuit of Dnipro centre-back Samuel Inkoom. 

According to Sky Sports, the 23-year-old is seeking a transfer from the Ukranian club "after finding himself frozen out of Juande Ramos' plans."

Despite his reputation as one of the game's better defenders, Inkoom won't be playing for Ghana in the Africa Cup of Nations, leaving the window open for teams to pursue his services. And with clubs from West Brom to Liverpool all linked in the Sky Sports report to the talented youngster, the time is now for Chelsea to step up. 

The Blues have expressed interest in acquiring Inkoom in the past. Last year Chelsea scouting chief Michael Emenalo monitored the progress of the defender, so the club's current interest isn't anything surprising.

Although Chelsea isn't desperate for backs, bringing in a player of Inkoom's caliber would be a huge coup. 

Inkoom's calling card is his versatility, as he can line up at centre-back or right-back. A star for Ghana's national team, Inkoom was reportedly very excited when discussing a move to Chelsea back in 2011, so a move in 2013 should still be amenable for the embattled star. 

As a player, Inkoom would bolster a solid backfield for The Blues—one that maintained its strength by re-signing one of the game's best fullbacks in Ashley Cole. 

While Inkoom doesn't play the same spot as Cole, allowing the 23-year-old to learn from the savvy veteran would be a good move both short term and for the long run. Cole is regarded as one of the best left-backs in the world, and after starring for The Blues since 2006, he's familiar with the system. 

Bringing in Inkoom would allow for a smooth transition when Cole eventually retires or leaves for another club. The current Dnipro back could learn under Cole's wing, continue to develop his skills and captain the defense in the future. 

With his combination skill and youth, Inkoom is a hot commodity on the transfer market. 

If Chelsea hopes to bring him to Stamford Bridge, it needs to bust open the checkbook and get the deal done before it's too late.