Chelsea reportedly eyeing Kimpembe transfer to replace Rudiger and Christensen

Chelsea are eyeing a move for Paris Saint-Germain defender Presnel Kimpembe, according to reports. It comes as Thomas Tuchel looks to replace the outgoing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer.

The duo are out-of-contract at the end of the season, meaning they are free to leave and negotiate with other sides. While the club are still under restrictions due to sanctions on owner Roman Abramovich, they cannot offer any new deals to players.

This has already led to the confirmation of Rudiger leaving, as said by Tuchel himself: “The situation is that he wants to leave the club. He informed me of this in a private talk. We gave everything – me and the club – but we could not fight anymore because of the actions. Without the sanctions we would at least be able to carry on fighting, but our hands are tied. We don’t take it personally. It is his decision.”

READ MORE:Todd Boehly handed huge boost in Chelsea takeover amid £1.6bn Abramovich problem

The Germany international has since been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, while Christensen could line up against him next season amid suggestions he is moving to Barcelona. The two exits have been looming large over Tuchel since last summer, where the club were reportedly eyeing Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.

Should the takeover be pushed through in time, as well as the manager receiving backing from his new board, the German coach could oversee a slight overhaul of his squad. In light of the need to reinforce his defence, the Blues are said to have drawn up a shortlist.

According to GOAL, that shortlist includes PSG defender Kimpembe. The 26-year-old has been a key figure at the back for both club and country, winning 22 trophies including the World Cup.

Should the France international join the club, it would also see him reunite with Thiago Silva, who spent eight years in the French capital himself. Kimpembe has two-years remaining on his current deal at the club, meaning a deal may be more plausible.

A few factors are still required for the club before they can sign players, but he could be a vital addition for a key rebuild this summer if he does move to Stamford Bridge.