Chelsea 'still interested' in SHOCK Premier League move

Cameron Smith

18 Jul 2024 09:45 BST
3 min read

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Chelsea remain interested in Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, while Manchester City and Liverpool are also keen on the 23-year-old.

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Ait-Nouri has been linked with a summer transfer for several months after an impressive 2023-24 campaign, but talk of a Molineux exit has died down in recent weeks.

However, he remains of interest to Chelsea, Man City and Liverpool, according to CaughtOffside.

The report states that Ait-Nouri is open to leaving Wolves if he receives a suitable contract and wage offer.

Gary O’Neil’s side have set a €45 million asking price for the Algerian and are reportedly unwilling to let him leave unless that fee is paid.

Representatives from Chelsea, Man City and Liverpool have all met with Wolves to discuss a possible move for Ait-Nouri, as per CaughtOffside, although an offer is yet to be lodged.

The Wolves defender scored three goals and provided two assists in 38 appearances in all competitions, while he has two years left on his current contract at Molineux. His Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at €18.8m.

© IMAGO - Rayan Ait-Nouri could leave Wolves this summer

Rayan Ait-Nouri to Chelsea?

Ait-Nouri is a fantastic player, but it would be slightly surprising if Chelsea buy him.

The Blues already have Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell on their books, with the pair on contracts until 2028 and 2027, while Ishe Samuels-Smith is a highly-rated youngster in the club’s academy.

In addition, Renato Veiga has arrived from Basel for €14m and although he is a versatile player capable of playing in central midfield, he is expected to provide depth at left-back.

Furthermore, Caleb Wiley is set to join from Atlanta United, and while Chelsea have sold Ian Maatsen and Lewis Hall so far this summer, they still have a plethora of options at left-back and would be wise to spend money elsewhere.