Chelsea have joined Manchester United in the race for a £60m-rated player who has been in fine form this season.

Chelsea are once again expected to outlay a substantial wedge of cash in the fast-approaching summer transfer window.

Since Todd Boehly’s takeover in 2022, they’ve been far and away the league’s heaviest spenders and it appears they’re once again willing to spend big on a rumoured target.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side have returned to form in recent weeks, though, it’s become evident over the season that they need better options at left-back.

With that said, they’ve just been linked with one of the world’s best.

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Chelsea join Manchester United in race for Theo Hernandez

Chelsea have joined Manchester United in the race for AC Milan’s jet-heeled left-back Theo Hernandez, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.

Hernandez is said to want a summer exit as his side finished 18 points adrift of rivals Inter at the summit of Serie A.

Bayern Munich and Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal are also eyeing a move for him, so competition is rife for the 2018 World Cup winner.

Milan value the 25-cap France international at between £51-60m which is thought to be too high for Bayern, who would look to land him at a reduced fee.

That could open the door for the aforementioned Premier League duo, who may have the greater financial means.

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Theo Hernandez would be perfect for Chelsea

With Luke Shaw the clear first-choice left-back at United, it seems unlikely they’ll be all in for Hernandez.

Whereas Chelsea are evidently weak in that area and the 26-year-old would certainly add another outlet down that flank.

Hernandez has scored five goals whilst laying on an impressive 10 assists this term, which is phenomenal numbers for a defender.

Further, he can operate as a centre-back and has on several occasions, evincing his tremendous versatility which would lend itself well to Pochettino’s defensive ranks.

The only sticking point would be the fee, as, without Champions League football, Chelsea will surely have to sell one or two players before launching a £60m proposal.

It’s certainly a deal to keep an eye on.

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