Out go Manchester United, in come Chelsea.
It’s the merry-go-round of Premier League clubs linked with Stefan de Vrij, with the Italian media jumping from one to the other depending on what time of the month it is.
A week ago to the day, Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Manchester United were still interested in the Dutch centre-back, with a potential free transfer a rather enticing prospect for José Mourinho.
Well, fast forward to Friday, and the same newspaper claim that Chelsea have now ‘popped up’ again with their interest in the Lazio star, as Inter also hope to lure him away from Rome over the coming months.
Gazzetta explain that, despite his agency already agreeing a nice contract with Luciano Spalletti’s side, De Vrij would be more inclined to staying an extra year with his current side as a sign of appreciation for what they’ve done for him, but he also wants to get paid.
His representatives are yet to agree on terms with Igli Tare and Claudio Lotito, which leaves a small window for other clubs to put forward their offers.
With De Vrij’s contract expiring in June, Chelsea are free to speak to him now.
What causes us to lean towards Chelsea actually being interested is the fact Il Messaggero have also reported it, and the fact he’s been on their radar for a long time.
It’s still advantage Lazio in all this, but the longer it drags on, the more chance there is of the player moving in the summer.
Just look at Liverpool and Emre Can.
