Chelsea ‘place World Cup-winning PSG star top of FIVE-MAN shortlist amid Moises Caicedo transfer saga frustration’

8 months ago 61

CHELSEA have reportedly placed World Cup winner Leandro Paredes at the top of a five-man shortlist.

That’s after becoming frustrated in their pursuit of Moises Caicedo.

Chelsea have made World Cup winner Leandro Paredes a top midfield target[/caption]

The Blues have been struggling to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton[/caption]

Chelsea have seen several transfer bids rejected for the Brighton star, with the most recent offer worth £80million.

And Chelsea have now drawn up a list of alternatives as their season opener against Liverpool approaches.

Leeds’ Tyler Adams is being eyed by the Blues thanks to a reported £20m release clause.

There is also interest in Ajax’s Edson Alvarez, a target from last summer.

And Chelsea continue to look at Everton’s Andre Onana, as well as Celta Vigo’s Gabri Veiga.

However, the Standard claims Paris Saint-Germain star Paredes has now emerged as Mauricio Pochettino’s top choice.

He is training with the likes of Kylian Mbappe and other PSG “undesirables” after being put on the transfer list by Luis Enrique.

Paredes spent last season on loan at Juventus.

But despite a disappointing club campaign, he played a big part in Argentina’s stunning World Cup win.

A move to Chelsea would see Paredes link up with compatriot Enzo Fernandez.

And with the 29-year-old in the final year of his PSG contract, the transfer fee would be reasonably low.

It’s not the first time Paredes has been linked with Chelsea.

He was a top target for Europa League-winning boss Maurizio Sarri following the departure of Cesc Fabregas in January 2019.

Chelsea were ready to strike a deal with then-side Zenit before PSG pounced for £40m.

Paredes went on to play 117 times for the Ligue 1 giants, winning four titles and two French Cups in the process.

Last season he made 35 appearances for loan side Juventus.

But the Italians opted against making his move permanent.