Chelsea Transfer News: Latest Rumours on Vitolo and Virgil van Dijk
Darren Lewis of the Mirror reported Blues manager Antonio Conte is a fan of the winger and would like to bring him to Stamford Bridge in the summer. The Spain international has a £35 million release clause in his deal, offering Chelsea the opportunity for a simple purchase.
The Spaniard would complement the Blues' regular tactics and should offer them a fresh and credible talent as they enter UEFA Champions League football once again.
TOP NEWS
World Cup 3rd-Place Game Could Be Epic
World Cup Winner Rings 💍
World Cup Final Expert Predictions 🔮
Atletico Madrid are also interested in the player but are restricted by a transfer ban imposed on the club, per Lewis. The summer could see Chelsea splash the cash as they attempt to recruit Alex Sandro of Juventus for £61 million and Monaco player Tiemoue Bakayoko for £35 million.
Vitolo recently dismissed talk of a potential switch to Manchester City as he addressed Atletico's interest.
Speaking to La Provincia (h/t Adriana Garcia of ESPN FC), the player commented: "Manchester City is a great team that has grown in recent years but, for the time being, there is nothing with this team. I don't know what will happen as not only Atletico [Madrid] is interested, there are other teams. We will see what happens."
Here is the attacker in action:
In other news, Chelsea's pursuit of Southampton's Virgil van Dijk has received a boost after the Saints indicated they are not happy doing business with Liverpool for the talented Dutchman.
According to the Irish Independent, the Blues remain in the "box seat" to sign the defender as Southampton resist any overtures from the Reds. The south coast club do not want to sell their prized asset but will consider offers over £65 million.
Chelsea's intentions in the transfer market are becoming more clear, and it seems they will try to significantly improve their squad this summer.
Van Dijk would offer security at the back for Conte, and with John Terry's leadership missing, a new understanding in the squad will be needed.
The Netherlands international has developed into one of the Premier League's top performers, and he will find a suitable home if he arrives in west London.
