Chelsea are reportedly holding discussions over whether to make offers for as many as three Manchester City players.
Despite a month having almost passed since the official takeover by a consortium headed by Todd Boehly, Chelsea are yet to make a first-team addition.
However, with Romelu Lukaku due to be one of a number of players heading for the Stamford Bridge exit door this summer, that is soon expected to change with head coach Thomas Tuchel having greater control over transfers.
In recent days, it has been well documented that Chelsea are attempting to sign Raheem Sterling, the England international having just 12 months remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
According to The Telegraph, Tuchel is also intent on getting a deal for Sterling's City teammate Nathan Ake over the line as he bids to strengthen his backline.
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Tuchel is said to be a long-term admirer of the Netherlands international, an emotion partly based on his ability to play in central defence, at left-back and in midfield.
Despite speculation regarding his future, the 27-year-old has recently played down speculation regarding a transfer away from the Premier League champions.
Speaking to NOS, Ake said: "Last season (2020-21) was very unhappy due to injuries, I don't really count that year. This season (2021-22) I was really 100% present and I played more. You notice an improvement in yourself, how you play. I felt good. I will go into the [new] season with that intention (to play for Man City). I will do everything I can to play even more."
However, it now appears that circumstances may change with Chelsea and City said to be in talks to determine whether a proposal can be negotiated which suits all parties.
As well as backing up that report, the Daily Mail claims that the West Londoners have also expressed an interest in signing Oleksandr Zinchenko.
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While the Ukraine international has had opportunities to depart City in the past, he has remained to make a total of 99 starts and 29 substitute appearances in all competitions.
Although he has been provided with regular game time in different competitions, speculation persists that Pep Guardiola is looking to sign Brighton & Hove Albion defender Marc Cucurella.
Should that deal take place, Zinchenko would effectively become third choice on the left-hand side of defence or at wing-back, a scenario which may act as the catalyst for an exit.
The report adds that it is unlikely that Chelsea would commit to signing each of the three players given the financial demands which will be made by City.
Zinchenko is also attracting interest from elsewhere with the likes of Arsenal and Everton having been linked with the 25-year-old.
Darren Plant
