Chelsea Open De Ligt Transfer Talks with Juventus

The centre-back has two years left on his contract with the Turin giants and a €120 million release clause.

Chelsea have approached Juventus to discuss a possible deal for centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, GOAL understands.

The Blues want to strengthen their defensive line after losing Antonio Rudiger, who left in a free transfer to join Real Madrid.

They are considering the Dutch centre-back as candidate to step into the back line ahead of next season and have already made contact with the Serie A side.

Chelsea's interest in De Ligt

There has already been contact between Chelsea and Juventus about the former Ajax centre-back.

The Blues have not made a bid as of yet, but they have asked for information about De Ligt's availability.

Juventus' position is clear, however, as they still want to commit the Netherlands international to a new contract.

De Ligt's current deal runs out in 2024, but the Turin giants are waiting on De Ligt to confirm that he wants to extend his stay in Italy.

If he decides against signing a new contract, a path to leaving the Bianconeri may open up for the star who has a €120 million ($127m/£103m) release clause.