Chelsea FC will have to shell out a world-record transfer fee to sign Ben Chilwell this summer. The Leicester City left-back is a primary transfer target for the Blues. Moreover, Chelsea FC boss Frank Lampard is extremely keen on signing the 23-year old Chilwell to fortify his side’s defense ahead of the new season.
Leicester City failed to ensure Champions League football for next season, losing to Manchester United on the final matchday. As a result, the Foxes finished fifth in the final Premier League standings. Brendan Rodger’s men, however, will be playing Europa League football in their upcoming campaign.
Failure to qualify for Europe’s most prestigious club competitions means that Rodgers will face difficulties in keeping Chilwell at the club beyond the current season. The left-back has courted serious interest from Chelsea FC in recent months. Moreover, the English international himself is understood to be keen on sealing a move to Stamford Bridge this summer.
Chilwell’s contract with the Foxes is valid until 2024. With four more years remaining on the 23-year old’s current deal, Leicester City are demanding a hefty fee to allow the player to leave as early as this summer. Brendan Rodger’s side are seeking an amount greater than £80 million for Chilwell’s transfer, according to recent reports.
£80 million was what Leicester City had pocketed last summer following the sale of Harry Maguire to Manchester United. Rodgers has stated that he does not have any intention of letting Chilwell seal a move elsewhere this summer. The Foxes manager had also added that the 23-year old left-back is not for sale at any price.
However, in order to lure Leicester City in selling their star defender, Chelsea FC will have to table a huge offer. Signing Chilwell for more than £80 million will make him the world’s most expensive defender, breaking the current record held by Manchester United’s fee paid for Maguire.
The 23-year old English international has been one of the most consistent left-backs in the Premier League in recent seasons. After coming through Leicester City’s youth ranks, Chilwell has shone for the club’s first-team squad. His performances this season has made many top clubs register interest in making a move for the player.
